How to write a good job description

Whether it is a job applicant, employee, intern or especially, a relative that offers to help, take the time to put to paper what you expect from them and what their responsibilities include.

The Small Business Administration offers these clear cut guidelines for writing a job description:

A job description is a written summary that ensures workers understand their roles and what they need to do to be held accountable. It serves as a basis for performance expectations, training, job evaluation and career advancement. It also attracts the right job candidates.

Start the job description with the purpose and responsibilities of the job. Add specific tasks involved, methods used to complete the tasks, relationship to other jobs in the company and the qualifications required. Remember that job descriptions are not written in stone and need to be reviewed annually to reflect changes in the employee, company and new technologies.

The main headings include the job title, objective or overall purpose statement, level of the job, description of the broad function or scope of the position, list of duties or critical tasks, description of relationships to other roles in the company such as supervisory positions. Consider including the job specifications, standards, requirements and qualifications.

Use words that are clear and specific. For instance, rather than “frequently” write that “time sheets are collected bi-weekly.” Use unbiased terminology such as “she/he” or construct sentences in such a way that gender pronouns are not required.

Getting the job specifics in writing helps everyone involved stay on task and keep your small business running more smoothly. It is worth the time upfront.

For more detail, go to tinyurl.com/on77k4t