Job Description vs. Job Specification: What's the Difference?
Edited by Sawaira Riaz || By Sumera Saeed || Updated on October 5, 2023
A Job Description outlines the tasks and responsibilities of a role, while a Job Specification details the qualifications and attributes a candidate should possess.
Key Differences
The Job Description and Job Specification, while interconnected, serve two distinct purposes in the recruitment and hiring process. A Job Description is primarily concerned with the role itself. It offers a clear and concise overview of the duties, responsibilities, and tasks that the job entails. This description acts as a guidepost, letting prospective candidates know what will be expected of them in the role.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 05, 2023
Job Specification, on the other hand, shifts focus from the role to the individual who will fill that role. This document lays out the qualifications, skills, education, experience, and other attributes that an ideal candidate should possess. It acts as a benchmark for assessing and screening potential candidates for suitability.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 05, 2023
In essence, while the Job Description outlines the 'what' of a position, the Job Specification deals with the 'who'. A hiring manager uses the Job Description to detail what the job involves and what deliverables or outcomes are expected. Simultaneously, they utilize the Job Specification to ensure they find the best fit - someone who has the right mix of skills, experience, and temperament.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 05, 2023
Furthermore, both these documents are critical for performance assessments and evaluations once a candidate is onboarded. The Job Description offers a foundation for setting targets and expectations, while the Job Specification can guide professional development and training, ensuring the employee possesses the necessary skills and attributes for success.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 05, 2023
It's also worth noting that, in some organizations, these two documents might be combined into a single document. Regardless of the format, both the description of the role and the qualifications required remain pivotal in the hiring and management process.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 05, 2023
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Comparison Chart
Primary Focus
Tasks, duties, and responsibilities of the role
Qualifications and attributes of the candidate
Sumera Saeed
Oct 05, 2023
Content
Roles, responsibilities, and outcomes
Skills, experience, education, and other qualifications
Sumera Saeed
Oct 05, 2023
Importance in Recruitment
Informs candidates about the role
Assists in candidate screening and selection
Sara Rehman
Oct 05, 2023
Post-Hiring Utility
Performance assessment and target setting
Training and professional development
Sumera Saeed
Oct 05, 2023
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Job Description and Job Specification Definitions
Job Description
A document that clarifies the tasks and expectations for a role.
Candidates referred to the Job Description to understand their daily duties.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 05, 2023
Job Specification
A guide to the traits and qualifications essential for job success.
Certifications in project management were on the Job Specification for the coordinator role.
Harlon Moss
Oct 05, 2023
Job Description
A written record of the functions and requirements of a specific job.
The Job Description made it clear that data analysis was a key component.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 05, 2023
Job Specification
A document describing the ideal candidate's characteristics.
According to the Job Specification, prior leadership experience was preferred.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 05, 2023
Job Description
A guide detailing the scope and objectives of a role.
The Job Description highlighted client interaction as a primary responsibility.
Harlon Moss
Oct 05, 2023
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Job Specification
An outline of what an organization seeks in a potential employee.
The Job Specification noted that proficiency in Spanish would be a bonus.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 05, 2023
Job Description
A detailed outline of the roles and responsibilities tied to a position.
The Job Description for the manager detailed team leadership and strategy planning.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 05, 2023
Job Specification
A breakdown of the qualifications and attributes ideal for a role.
The Job Specification listed a master's degree as a requirement.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 05, 2023
Job Description
An overview of what a particular position entails in an organization.
According to the Job Description, the engineer would work closely with the design team.
Janet White
Oct 05, 2023
Job Specification
A summary of the skills, education, and experience required for a job.
The Job Specification emphasized strong communication skills.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 05, 2023
FAQs
What might you find in a Job Description?
A Job Description lists duties, responsibilities, and outcomes of the role.
Janet White
Oct 05, 2023
How does a Job Specification assist in recruitment?
A Job Specification details the qualifications and attributes, aiding in candidate screening.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 05, 2023
Can a Job Description and Job Specification be combined?
Yes, some organizations might merge them into a single document.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 05, 2023
What does a Job Description primarily focus on?
A Job Description primarily outlines the tasks and responsibilities of a role.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 05, 2023
What's the key content of a Job Specification?
It details skills, experience, education, and other qualifications.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 05, 2023
Can a Job Description change over time?
Yes, as organizational needs evolve, the Job Description may be updated.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 05, 2023
Do all organizations have separate Job Descriptions and Job Specifications?
No, the format varies; some may combine them or have alternative documents.
Sara Rehman
Oct 05, 2023
How does a Job Specification help with professional development?
It guides training by highlighting the necessary skills and attributes.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 05, 2023
What happens if a candidate doesn't meet the Job Specification?
They might not be shortlisted, or alternative skills may be considered.
Sara Rehman
Oct 05, 2023
How often should a Job Description be reviewed?
Regularly, to ensure it aligns with current organizational needs and industry trends.
Janet White
Oct 05, 2023
Who typically drafts the Job Specification?
Often HR, in collaboration with the department hiring, drafts the Job Specification.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 05, 2023
How detailed should a Job Specification be?
It should be comprehensive enough to clearly define the ideal candidate's attributes.
Harlon Moss
Oct 05, 2023
Can a Job Specification include soft skills?
Absolutely, soft skills like communication or teamwork can be vital.
Harlon Moss
Oct 05, 2023
Why is a Job Description important for an employee?
It sets expectations and serves as a basis for performance assessments.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 05, 2023
Is a Job Specification always strict in its criteria?
While some criteria are essential, others might be "preferred" or flexible.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 05, 2023
Is it essential for a candidate to meet every point on a Job Specification?
Not always; some points are crucial, while others are bonuses or preferences.
Janet White
Oct 05, 2023
Who benefits more from a Job Description, the employer or the employee?
Both; the employer communicates expectations, and the employee understands their role.
Janet White
Oct 05, 2023
Why is it crucial to keep both the Job Description and Job Specification updated?
To ensure alignment with current needs and attract the right candidates.
Sara Rehman
Oct 05, 2023
Should employees be familiar with their Job Description post-hire?
Yes, as it guides their responsibilities and performance expectations.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 05, 2023
Can a candidate refer to the Job Description during interviews?
Yes, it can guide them in understanding and discussing role expectations.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 05, 2023
About Author
Written by
Sumera SaeedSumera is an experienced content writer and editor with a niche in comparative analysis. At Diffeence Wiki, she crafts clear and unbiased comparisons to guide readers in making informed decisions. With a dedication to thorough research and quality, Sumera's work stands out in the digital realm. Off the clock, she enjoys reading and exploring diverse cultures.
Edited by
Sawaira RiazSawaira is a dedicated content editor at difference.wiki, where she meticulously refines articles to ensure clarity and accuracy. With a keen eye for detail, she upholds the site's commitment to delivering insightful and precise content.
