About 3 months ago I posted a blog/rant about why most Job Descriptions are complete rubbish.
You know what I’m talking about. You read the one for the job you are doing now.
Uninspiring: Although you said it was really really exciting at interview.
Impenetrable: You had to search the web to understand some of the jargon.
Long. Very Long: You didn’t read all of it did you? Be honest.
If the typical manager/HR team had written a job description for Mo Farah it would very likely read:
“Needs to run 10,000m every couple of years , remain upright throughout and complete the task to an acceptable level. Your performance is subject to an annual review but don’t worry mate keep your head down and do your best – you won’t get fired.”
And then we would follow it with a load of waffle that states the bleeding obvious:
- Must demonstrate ability to tie own laces
- Punctuality when turning up for the race – essential
- Performs other duties as required by the line manager
As I mentioned in the previous blog – my 5 rules are now these:
- Stick to a 140 Character Job Purpose
- 1 Page Total Job Description.
- Use a picture or graphic.
- Use passionate language.
- Describe how you want the person to make a difference.
A few people have asked what happened next. Did HR get it? Did a JD that included the word “Sexy” in its job purpose get past go?
Well , the answer is yes.
Here’s a quick sample from five of them. See what you think. Would it make you want to get out of bed in the morning?
“You are a teacher , a coach , a mentor and a shoulder to cry on….your mission is that no meeting you host will ever be boring.”
“You are responsible for making Volunteering sexy. You give people something to look forward to.”
‘You will live and breathe Connect – ensuring it delivers “Apple standard” performance to its users. You are responsible for whether it succeeds or fails.”
“You believe that young people can create the jobs of the future. And you make it happen.”
“You are the first step in helping someone be the best they can be. You change lives”
Whether you love or loathe this – there is a genuine problem we all need to help solve. 1 in 4 of us don’t feel we reach our creative potential in the workplace.
And right now we need creativity , innovation and aspiration in our companies and communities more than ever before.
So let’s say goodbye to average. And aim for inspirational from the start.
Paul Taylor 
Great post, Paul. If people can be inspired by our JD’s, imagine how inspired they could be when they walk through your door for the first time!
What I would say though is: make first impressions count, but ensure your business stands up to your JD!
Definitely Andy – no good being all wow on paper (online?) and then they meet the team and it looks like people are disengaged and want to get out!