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Where Job Descriptions Go Wrong Job descriptions are important, but beware-—they may push people back into the org chart boxes you've been asking them to break out of. Killer Negatives of Job Descriptions Job descriptions become dated fast! It's a rapid-paced, ever-changing work environment these days, and outdated job descriptions are time bombs ready to explode the reality of what now needs doing back into what was needed in the past. Review descriptions regularly as part of your performance appraisal system, Heathfield recommends. Job descriptions can encourage "that's not my job" thinking. They need enough flexibility that people can think "outside the box," says Heathfield. They need to allow for cross-training, helping another team member, and making appropriate decisions concerning customers. Poorly written job descriptions may be used as evidence against you. If you fire someone for failing at a task not listed on the job description, your job could be in on the line! The solution to all these problems? Job descriptions—both writing and updating them—must be part of your day-to-day HR work, Heathfield says. Prewritten, Legally Reviewed Job Descriptions What's the state of your organization's job descriptions? Are they up-to-date? Accurate? ADA-compatible? If you are not sure that your job descriptions are what they should be (or if you’ve never even written them), you’re not alone. Thousands of companies fall short in this area. It’s easy to understand why. Job descriptions are not quick to do and they are not easy—what with updating and management and legal review, especially for the Americans with Disabilities Act’s requirement of a split off of essential vs. other functions in the description. Wouldn't it be great if they were available, already written? Actually, they are. ERC's Member Center contains over 1,000, ready to go, covering every common position in any organization, from receptionist right up to president. When visiting the Member Center, just click on HR Essentials and Tools (powered by BNA) and you'll be on your way. |