Why Using Specific Job Descriptions is More Effective Than Generic Job Descriptions
March 24, 2023
If you’re looking to hire the right personnel with the perfect set of skills for your business, crafting a well-written job description is essential. A good job description helps you find the best-fit candidate, eliminate unqualified ones, and market your business. In contrast, a poorly written job description attracts candidates who don’t meet your job-specific needs.
So why should you use specific job descriptions rather than the obvious generic ones? This article explains why it’s worth writing specific job descriptions.
Read on to get informed.
What Is the Difference Between Specific Job Descriptions and Generic Ones?
Specific job descriptions are made up of well-detailed information on what the employee is expected to do for the job in question. They paint a clear picture of specifics such as duties the employee is responsible for, expectations for the role, qualifications, and how they can excel in the position.
Generic job descriptions only highlight the core duties and responsibilities of the job and the relevant data needed to apply to the listed job.
Why Should You Use a Specific Job description?
A specific job description provides more information on the performance, qualities, and training needs of employees looking to apply. It will also help your hiring team select the most qualified candidate amongst the applicants and encourage the most qualified candidates to apply if they know they’re the best fit for the task.
The Problem of Using Generic Job Descriptions
Generic job descriptions are vague and do not provide enough information about the role, requirements, or qualifications. They are often copied and edited from other job postings, which can result in an apparent generic job description that does not accurately reflect the position’s specific requirements. This approach can result in unqualified candidates applying for the role, wasting valuable time and resources during the hiring process.
Benefits of Using Specific Job Descriptions
Using specific job descriptions can have benefits for your business. Below are some of the advantages you can expect:
- Detailed job descriptions help you attract suitable candidates who have the necessary skills and qualifications for the job. This allows you to separate unqualified candidates who don’t meet the set requirements.
- Specific job descriptions also improve the quality of candidates that apply for the job by clarifying the expectations. This filters out those less suitable candidates from the best candidates.
- Another benefit of using specific job descriptions is that it helps to set clear expectations and goals from the onset. Candidates who apply for the job will understand their role and what is expected of them, which leads to a more successful hiring process.
- Specific job descriptions can also help reduce the likelihood of misunderstandings or disputes between the employer and the employee down the line. If a qualified candidate knows what they are expected to do, work-related disputes are averted, and the job is executed flawlessly.
Tips for Writing Effective Job Descriptions
Writing an effective job description can significantly improve the likelihood of hiring the right candidate. Here are a few tips on how to write one:
- Start by defining a clear job title that accurately highlights the level of the role.
- List the important duties and responsibilities of the job in detail. Be specific about what the role entails and what the expectations are.
- Clearly outline the required qualifications and skills for the position. This will help you attract suitable candidates and avoid those not meeting the requirements.
- Be clear and concise about the level of experience required for the job. This will help you attract candidates with the right years of experience for the role.
- Use clear and concise language. Avoid jargon and technical terms that may be difficult for candidates to understand.
- Highlight any benefits or perks that come with the job, such as flexible hours, health insurance, or a retirement plan.
- Proofread and edit the job description carefully to avoid errors or inconsistencies before posting.
Conclusion
Using specific job descriptions is more effective than generic ones when hiring the right candidate. By following the above tips on crafting effective job descriptions, you’ll be able to hire suitable candidates who build the best teams and foster good company culture.
Whether you’re looking to hire the best telecom candidates in your company or looking for work in the Telecom space, contact us today or visit our services and solutions page for more information. We can’t wait to hear from you!