Is it important to have job descriptions?
dsandoval
18 Posts
I'm curious to know the importance of job descriptions in companies and would like to know how many companies out there are currently using them. Also, do you specify the number years of experience to determine what level an employee fits in or do you leave that blank?
Thank you for your time!
Thank you for your time!
Comments
Written job descriptions are one of your best defenses if you're ever sued for violating the Americans with Disabilities Act. The job description should show the things you consider essential functions of the job.
ADA litigation has also reinforced the importance of not only articulating job requirements but also updating them regularly so they can be used as credible evidence of current duties and employer expectations. Note that you should go beyond stating specific tasks in the job description. Other requirements, such as regular attendance or the ability to work as part of a team, should also be identified.
Brad Forrister
Director of Publishing
M. Lee Smith Publishers
I think you will find that more companies than not use job descriptions.
It's a pretty huge task to write job descriptions depending upon how many job titles you have. If you want to start slow, some of my clients will begin with drafting job descriptions for every new job opening until they get one written for every job title. Be sure you include the physical requirements on every job description, including (for the office positions) the ability to sit for long periods of time, the ability to concentrate for long periods of time, etc.
Many HR people will outsource this type of project because they simply don't have time to do it. I have someone I can recommend if you want to go that route. Just call me and I'll discuss it further with you.
I'll also send you a sample job descriptions if you are looking for a template. Just e-mail me and I'll send it to you. Hope that helps.
Margaret Morford
theHRedge
615-371-8200
[email]mmorford@mleesmith.com[/email]
[url]http://www.thehredge.net[/url]
I would really appreicate you sending me sample job descritions to get an idea of what one says. I will also keep your phone number on file in the event I need to outsource this project.
Thank you,
Dennell
Margaret Morford
theHRedge
615-371-8200
[email]mmorford@mleesmith.com[/email]
[url]http://www.thehredge.net[/url]
To lighten you load, I would suggest that each person in the job write the initial draft. This way they will own it. You can then interview them (or observe)to be sure nothing was left out. Then, you can formalize it & add all the extra ADA stuff. There is nothing worse than writing a job description in a vacuum - they become useless.
Good luck,
You have received excellent advice from the posts so far, I would only add that our job descriptions become the basis for our annual evaluations. They become an excellent foundation from which to rate each ees progress toward achieving their part of your organization's goals.
>that his organization does not believe in job descriptions.
It may have been Paul who posted that last year but I also stated we did not have job descriptions at our local operation but rather an extensive SOP system for ee’s to follow. I also posted that I like the statement, “other duties as assigned.”
Come on, I say enough silly stuff without you putting words in my mouth for me Don.
But, for all who want the real answer to the job description, re-read Santire's post.