Job descriptions are a key element of hiring processes, compensation strategy, and organizational effectiveness when it comes to human capital.
Job descriptions are also important tools for employees as they help guide employees to the right work, and through long term career development. 44% of worker skills will be disrupted in the next 5 years (Forbes 2023) emphasizing the growing importance for employers to regularly review and update job descriptions.
Here are some key reasons why organizations should have a plan and procedure to ensure job descriptions are consistently reviewed and updated.
The Role of Job Descriptions in Effective Workforce Management
Job Descriptions Help Forgo Unnecessary Misunderstandings 43% of employees indicate the reason for quitting was because the role didn't meet their expectations (Harvard Business Review). Regularly reviewing and updating job descriptions can help to avoid unnecessary misunderstandings between employers and employees. If the employee’s job duties are clearly outlined in the job description, they will be aware of what is expected of them by their employer.
They Help Define Goals and Objectives By regularly reviewing job descriptions, employers accurately define the goals and objectives of a particular position even as the position requirements or business objectives change. This can help to ensure that employees are aware of their key responsibilities and how they contribute to the overall success of the organization in a dynamic work environment.
They help attract and retain talent A study found that 44% of companies do not provide compelling career paths which lead 75% of employees to browse for new roles at other companies. (Forbes) When job roles and advancement opportunities are unclear, employees will seek alternative employment options. By keeping job descriptions up to date, organizations can develop career paths that will provide employees visibility into internal mobility options.
They Improve Job Performance and Productivity Reviewing and updating job descriptions regularly can help identify areas of improvement for employees and identify areas where there may be potential skill gaps in the organization. When addressed appropriately, this can lead to improved job performance and productivity.
They Help Ensure Compliance with Laws and Regulations Having up-to-date job descriptions can help ensure that employers comply with all applicable laws and regulations. Job descriptions that are regularly reviewed have a smaller chance of missing any required compliance information.
Maintain competitive pay and avoid accidental overpayment Compensation professionals make pay-setting decisions by matching internal job descriptions to job information published by trusted salary survey data providers. If the organization's job descriptions are not accurate, benchmarking efforts by role and geography will be skewed resulting in accidental overpayment or underpayment. Â
Understanding the Evolving Nature of Jobs and the Need for Regular Updates
Job Duties are Rapidly Changing and Evolving Job descriptions should be regularly reviewed and updated to ensure that they remain accurate and up-to-date. This is particularly important when jobs evolve or change over time, as job duties may need to be revised in order to reflect the changing responsibilities of the position.
Technology is Driving Rapid Change in Job Requirements Over 85% of organizations say adoption of frontier technologies is the trend most likely to drive change in their organizations. (World Economic Forum, 2023). Â By regularly reviewing job descriptions, employers can stay ahead of technological advances and ensure that their employees are knowledgeable of any changes in expected duties/skillsets.
Business Objectives may Instantly Alter Workforce Needs It is important to keep in mind that job roles may evolve over time due to changing business needs. It is essential for employers to review and update job descriptions accordingly in order to accurately accommodate new or updated workforce needs at the organization.
Establish a Regular Review Process for Accurate Job Descriptions that Keep up with Dynamic Business Needs.
Ultimately, regularly reviewing and updating job descriptions can be beneficial for both employers and employees. It helps to avoid unnecessary misunderstandings, define goals and objectives, improve performance, ensures pay is optimized and keeps you in compliance with laws and regulations.
Keeping job descriptions up-to-date is particularly important when jobs change or evolve over time due to changing technology, business needs, and other factors. By regularly reviewing job descriptions, employers can ensure that both employee and employer expectations are accurately reflected and defined.
By establishing a job description management process for regular review and update job descriptions, employers can ensure that their workforce is well-managed and productive. This can help to create a positive work environment in which employees feel supported and valued, leading to improved job performance and overall employee satisfaction.