Job Description Template

Crafting a job description template for job listings can be important for any hiring manager or human resources professional. It leads to a clearer understanding of job titles, specifications, responsibilities and duties, as well as the working conditions of employees. 

Then there is job identification, which helps ensure the basic details of each job, including the job title, department and other related parties. Creating job descriptions with detailed information also serve as a reference when setting authority and standards of performance expectations. 

For instance, if you are hiring freelance professionals, a job description template can provide much-needed guidance and establish clear boundaries, which help create successful working relationships.

So, read on if you’re struggling to create a job description or want to learn more about this important document!

What is Job Description?

A job description is an overview of the job requirements and duties for any given position. It outlines what is expected from the person who holds the job and provides details about hours, shifts, job responsibilities, and sometimes the physical job requirements. 

The job description also includes the job title and general work categories associated with a particular job. It detailedly explains what tasks are expected to be performed and any other duties that may arise during the job period. 

It makes it easy for employers to evaluate how effectively each employee performs their role and makes it easier for employees to know precisely what they will be responsible for.

What is a Job Description used for?

Job descriptions are used for training and development purposes to provide job seekers with information about the duties and responsibilities a specific role requires. It also helps employers find suitable candidates by giving them an idea of the skills and qualifications they should look for in an applicant. 

Job descriptions can also be shared between organisations to compare similar roles. 

By sharing job descriptions between organisations, wage negotiations and other contractual agreements can become easier to agree upon since the differences between positions will be more easily identifiable.

What to include in the Job Description Template?

Putting together a description for a job opening can feel daunting, but having an adequate job description is important for attracting the desired talent. 

To write effective job descriptions, it is crucial to include all the necessary information. 

Among them are:

1. Title of the position

Keep the job title from the usual professional terminology because people are searching using phrases they already know. Make sure it is brief and straightforward. Include precise language, such as the programs necessary for the position.

2. A brief overview of the company’s mission statement and culture 

Typically, businesses have a lengthy mission statement, fundamental values, and cultural code. Keep the mission statements to two or four sentences, maximum. When applicants research multiple organisations and open positions, their tasks start to sound the same, though they can read a company’s profile if they wish to apply.

A strong corporate culture is a requirement among the top candidates, no matter how cliché it may seem. According to our research, 29% of job seekers consider this their main reason for searching for jobs.

3. Key duties and responsibilities

Explain the candidate’s responsibilities, the people they’ll work with, and any general attributes your team is looking for in three to five sentences.

Aims of the job

Here are some suggestions on how to describe the candidate’s duties in five to ten bullet points:

• When writing, use entire sentences.
• Candidates will be better prepared for an interview and the job if they know what is expected.
• Avoid including all possible scenarios that can arise during a typical day at work.

4. Experience and skills needed for qualified candidates

Identify five to seven bullet points that will help a candidate succeed in the position.

• Include specifics, such as years of experience.
• You should state whether you require any prerequisites, such as a resume, editing sample, writing sample, video recording, curriculum vitae, cover letter, etc.
• Knowing a candidate’s education, experience, qualifications, and expertise with a particular platform.

Desired skills

It might help applicants to figure out how to stand out in applications or interviews by listing any additional strengths they possess.

5. Goals or achievements candidates should strive for

In a few sentences, describe the candidate’s responsibilities, the people they will work with, and any general characteristics you are looking for.

6. An overview of the perks and benefits

There is a difference between benefits and perks. Organisations provide perks to assist employees in achieving a better work-life balance and leading happier lives.

Applicants frequently base their decisions on incentives other than money. Your business should offer the following benefits:

• Health and fitness insurance plans
• Retirement and stock option plans
• Parental leave and childcare options

Including all this information in your job descriptions can assist in attracting the best possible candidates while ensuring that employers and employees know what is expected from the role.

Tips for writing a great Job Descriptions

You’ll need to write an excellent job description to attract suitable candidates for your open roles. A good description should motivate people to apply for the job and excite them. 

1. Start by defining the essential duties and responsibilities of the job.
2. Listing desirable qualities.
3. Emphasising the value someone can add to your team. 
4. Providing contact information.
5. Ensuring it’s easy to read to create a practical job descriptions. 

Writing a job description example with extra care can increase response rates and catch prospective job seekers’ eyes. 

Bottom Line

A well-written job description is key to attracting great candidates to apply for your open role. 

Based on the tips in this post, you can write an effective and enticing job ad to help you find the right person for the position. If you’re looking for additional help managing your hiring process, check out our Cloud HR Software which includes everything you need to build a better workplace. 

With our software, you can easily create and manage job descriptions, post positions to multiple job boards with one click, track applicants and more. Start your free trial today!