“Difference Between Job Specification and Job Description”

What is a Job Description?

A job description lays out in detail the overall purpose, duties, and responsibilities of the job in question. It specifies the qualifications and skills required, and communicates to potential employees the expectations of the role. A job description typically covers duties, objectives, job specifications, qualifications, and conditions that the worker must meet. It may also include a description of the company or organization and its culture.

What is a Job Specification?

A job specification is a more detailed description of the role than a job description. It provides an explicit listing of the characteristics that are necessary for a person to be successful in that particular position. It includes skills, experience, knowledge, behavior, and attitude that employers look for when recruiting and selecting candidates for a specific role. The job specification guides the development of the job description which then serves as the baseline for assessing job applicants.

Purpose of Job Specifications and Description

The purpose of job specifications and descriptions is to provide employers with a clear understanding of the scope of a job and the requirements necessary to perform it effectively. It helps to ensure that the right person is hired for the right role, and that all decision makers have a shared understanding of the job and its expectations. Job specifications and descriptions also help to ensure a level playing field for recruitment and selection, by providing an objective assessment of job candidates’ abilities and qualifications.

FAQs

How can organizations ensure that job description and specification as organizational goals?

Organizations can ensure job descriptions and specifications are aligned with their workforce needs and organizational goals by conducting an ongoing review of the role and making sure it is up-to-date. Organizations should analyze the work that needs to be done and the skills, experience, and qualifications that are required. They should also solicit feedback from relevant stakeholders and develop the job requirements accordingly. Additionally, it is important to have a framework in place for ensuring job descriptions and specifications are up-to-date, and communicate changes to all internal and external stakeholders.