Although there is no standard format for a job description, almost all well-written, useful descriptions will include these components: (1) Job title, (2) Summary, (3) Equipment, (4) Environment, (5) Activities. Explain what information should be contained in each section. Page 161

According to Ivancevich (2010), a job description describes the details of employment and should contain a job title, a summary, equipment, environment, and activities. The job title should provide helpful information about what the job title is, pay information, medical and other benefits. It would also be useful to include any education requirements, certifications, or previous experience to qualify for the job. The summary should include a brief description of the “purpose of the job and what outputs are expected from job incumbents” (pg. 161). Providing a summary provides a snapshot of the company’s vision and their values. Equipment should provide a detailed list of all the supplies, machinery, software, and any other information that would allow for the employee to successfully complete their daily tasks. There should also be a very clear description of the job environment. It is important to note any potential danger or hazardous materials in the area, describe the location, the amount of employees, and maybe even gender or race statistics. Lastly, a job description should include “job duties, responsibilities, and behaviors perform on the job” (pg. 162). Providing a responsibility statement would provide a concise explanation of what is expected from the employee and would also offer a picture of the various duties entailed.

Ivancevich, John (2010). Human Resource Management, 11th edition, pg. 161-162. The McGraw Hill Companies.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of the two principal methods of gathering data – the questionnaire and the interview?