Recruiting: Creating Job Descriptions

Guidelines

The purpose of the job description is to provide clarity on responsibilities and performance expectations for the open position. It is the foundation for the hiring process and serves as a guide for the recruiter and hiring manager. It's also critical for determining appropriate, targeted interview questions.

If a job description does not exist, one will need to be developed before the position is advertised. If a job description exists, it should be reviewed and updated with any new position requirements. The description should be refreshed on a regular basis to reflect any major changes.

Components of a Job Description

The job description should contain information that answers the following questions:

Summary

• What is the position title?
• What is the purpose of the position (usually achieved in three sentences or less)?

Responsibilities and Results

• What are the daily, weekly, monthly and annual responsibilities?
• What fiscal responsibility does this position have?
• What is the scope and limits of responsibility?
• What decision-making authority does this position have?

Supervisory Responsibilities

• Who reports to this position?

Qualifications

• What are the education and experience requirements?
• What competencies (skills, knowledge and abilities) are needed to be successful in this position?

Download a PDF (28K) for a printable version of the job description components.

Writing Tips

Begin each responsibility statement with an action verb (such as “plans,” “schedules,” “prepares”) that conveys “who or what” is done and “why or how” it is done.

Feel like you could benefit from a sample? Download PDFs of sample job descriptions for the following positions:

• Association Executive, Administrative Model (32K)
• Association Executive, Management Model (32K)
• Association Executive, Leadership Model (36K)
• Administrative Assistant (28K)
• Educational Program Coordinator (24K)
• Member Services Coordinator (24K)
• Multiple Listing Service Director (24K)
• Financial Manager (24K)
• Sample Job Description

The REALTOR® Association Resource Exchange (RARE) also has job descriptions for a range of positions from associations around the country.
Read more >

Disclaimer

This material was developed for use by State and Local Association Executives. Some of the information may not be applicable to other audiences. This guide is intended to provide accurate and authoritative information with regard to the subject matter covered. Although every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy and completeness of this information, the authors and editors of this guide cannot be responsible for any errors or omissions. This guide is not a substitute for legal or technical advice. Associations that need legal or technical advice should obtain opinions from their own legal or technical advisors.

Consulting Services Available from NAR Human Resources

Fee-based consulting services are available from NAR's Human Resources Department. For more information, contact Donna Garcia, Director Human Resource Services, at dgarcia@realtors.org, (312) 329-8311.