How to Distinguish Between a Job Description and a Job Specification

The definition between a job description and a job specification is different, but still related.

It is already challenging enough looking for a job, but it is compounded by certain keywords employers use that may confuse a less-experienced job seeker on what exactly the employer wants. Two of the most confused terms are job description and job specification.

Things You'll Need

• Internet

Instructions

1. Read through a job's description to learn what tasks need to be done in the job. In an office position, for instance, the description will usually and briefly say filing, working with Microsoft office programs and answering phones. For retail, you would see a description of running a cash register and dealing with customers.

2. Look carefully at the job specification. This will tell you what kind of person, skills, education or experience is needed for the job. For instance, the office position would require someone who has previous office experience, fast typing or computer skills and experience answering phones. A retail job specification would generally ask for someone with previous retail experience or, specifying more, a person who can stand on their feet for many hours.

3. Keep in mind that job specifications will generally cite experience first, although it will vary depending on what pay level exists in the job. For a high-paying professional job, specifications usually cite educational requirements equally with experience.

Tips & Warnings

• Ask your potential employer for more information on job description and job specification if get an interview. Some job listings give generalities in what they want. Knowing all the skills and specifications before deciding to take the job is important so you will understand the reality of your role. Specifications, particularly, should be found out to the core so you will know exactly what you will be dealing with mentally and physically.

References

• Education Ask
• CiteHR