Cambridge O Level Business Studies · Syllabus 7115 · People in Business
Job Description
What is Job Description?
A document setting out what a job involves: its title, the duties and tasks to be performed, the responsibilities held, the person the postholder reports to, and the conditions of the work such as hours and location. It describes the job, not the person. It is used to write the advertisement, to brief candidates accurately and, once someone is appointed, to make clear what they are accountable for.
This definition is part of the People in Business chapter in Cambridge O Level Business Studies.
Questions students ask about Job Description
What is the difference between a job description and a person specification?
A job description sets out what the job involves: its title, duties, responsibilities and who the postholder reports to. A person specification sets out what the applicant must offer: the qualifications, skills, experience and personal qualities needed, usually split into essential and desirable. A sentence that says "must have three years' experience" belongs on the person specification; one that says "supervise the evening shift" belongs on the job description.