A Job Description (JD) is a lucid and detailed explanation communicating to a new recruit about his/her responsibilities functions and where and how the candidate fits in the larger scheme of things. Accordingly most organizations carry out competency mapping these days. Detailed Job descriptions are important as they act pointers and can be the point of reference while identifying the competencies for as particular position as well a for selecting the right candidate. It minimizes the chances of expectation mismatch.
Clarity and transparency should be primary and features of a JD to minimize fitment problems. An unclear JD can affect productivity adversely. Different organizations have different kinds of JD as per their needs, but irrespective of industry or position a JD has to be clear so that it can get the most out of a candidate..
A well charted JD also aids the goal setting and appraisal process. It helps both the organization and the candidate to assess whether the latter has delivered what s/he had been hired.
Go through the JD in great detail to ensure that you know what is expected of you an are not caught unaware. Fresher especially need to make sure that they know all the fine points before taking up an offer.
Fresher often come armed with jargon and don’t know what they are getting into. Candidates should not feel apprehensive about asking question. Everyone has career plan and it is best to find out whether the offer is in keeping with their plans.
So, it is best you clarity your doubts before signing on the dotted line else it can leave you wondering about your responsibilities and your boss about why the promising new recruit is not performing.
There is no idea JD, it is subjective to the industry and organization. However, here are a few items which should feature in your JD.
1) About the organization: An overview of the organization.
2) Job title: Designation and grade: do not mistake the job profile / role with the designation. These are not inter-changeable terms. Designations do not mean the same in all organizations.
3) Statement of purpose: A general idea about the objective of the position and how it contributes to the overall objective of the organization.
4) Functions: A detailed list of duties and responsibilities depending on their importance, pending on their importance your accountability and the time needed.
5) Eligibility criteria: Details of the required skills, technical or academic qualifications as well as other requirements like soft skills, leadership skills, etc.
6) Experience: should be as specific as possible.
7) Reporting structure: A comprehensive account of any and all your roles. This should include who you will be reporting to (directly and in directly) as well as your own supervisory roles (if applicable) as well as the team strength).
A JD must have clarity and transparency Work location and schedule: The physical location of the job and whether it entails traveling and /or relocation. Also, of there are any exceptions like working in shifts then the timing has to be mentioned as well.
Though usually not mentioned, it is a goods idea to find out the work environment as you should prepare of it. For instance candidate from advertising or the media industry may find it stifling and difficult to adjust to a formal corporate atmosphere. So, it’s best to find out about the work atmosphere beforehand.
In the current hiring scenario placement consultation play a vital role. As there is no direct nexus between the employer and the job seeker, the consultant plays a critical role. In the matter of a profile to job fitment, the consultant is like a counselor to the candidate .his makes it imperative for the consultants to have complete clarity on the job description.
You need not be familiar with or have dabbled in everything that is mentioned in the JD. A new job or position should be such that it not only utilizes your current skills but also enhances your knowledge and field of expertise. So as long as you have your basics right and are willing to learn you can take it as a challenge and leave certain things to be learnt on the job.
However, do not take a JD as the last word for your career in an word for your career in an organization. Give it its due importance but always be open to change. It may not be possible to preempt every situation at the outset so be prepared.