The important difference between a job posting and a job description

What’s the difference between a job posting and a job description? Why is it important?

Let’s start by first defining our terms.

A job posting is, in essence, an advertisement. Job postings are typically posted externally (sometimes internally, too), and are used to inform potential job seekers about openings within your organization. A good job posting contains pertinent information on the duties/responsibilities of the role being advertised, as well as the minimum qualifications necessary to be considered for said role. And it doesn’t hurt to throw in some information about your company (see our previous blog about the importance of employer branding) – think background, what perks/benefits a potential hire might have access to if they were hired, and a statement on why someone might want to join the team.

A job description, however, is typically used internally to outline the duties/responsibilities, as well as the qualifications needed for the role. A good job description will outline the knowledge, skills, and abilities (KSA’s) necessary to perform the job at a satisfactory level. Job descriptions can, and should be used in processes like job evaluation, salary review, as a performance management tool, and as a means of goal setting.  Job descriptions rarely contain employer branding statements, or information on benefits, or the background of the company. Job descriptions should, however, contain information on who the role might report to, any union affiliations, and information about the hours of work expected by the incumbent.

Job postings and job descriptions are both valuable tools, and the good news is that they function even better in tandem. Having a current job posting and job description for each role in your organization can save you considerable time in both the interview/recruitment process, as well as when there is someone in the role.

Now that we’ve learnt a little more about job postings and job descriptions, we can talk about why they’re both important. You might be thinking, “why can’t I just have a job description and post that when I have a vacancy?” – the reason is that job postings are marketing tools, which help you to attract the right candidates to your organization. Job descriptions, as we covered, are internal tools that help us to retain talent, and provide structure within the organization.

Reimagine Work Tip: Always provide a job description when you make an offer of employment.