Position Descriptions and KPIs

What is a Position Description?

A well-written position description is one of the best investments an organisation can make because it can be used in so many ways, including job evaluation, performance appraisals, reorganisation, training, development and career planning.

When you are recruiting and interviewing, a job description puts everyone involved in the process on the same footing by clearly describing, in practical terms, the key responsibilities of the actual position, reporting relationships and work environment. A complete and accurate job description can help defend your selection process from grievances and other legal actions, should they occur.

How successful your employee is in their role is dependent to a large degree on how well they understand their job responsibilities and the associated specific tasks.

All this information is provided in a well-crafted job description as it describes the vision, mission and core values of your business; outlines your expectations of the role; details the competencies required to deliver on those expectations; and provides clear guidance for the employee on their responsibilities.

It is also a performance management tool that assists you to measure your employee’s performance against the stated job requirements. Key performance indicators (KPIs) are the measurable outcomes tied to specific responsibilities outlined in the job description.

What should you include in a position description?

While position descriptions can be as varied as the jobs they describe, there are several key elements that should be included. Though, the process of writing a job description doesn’t start with writing, but with an analysis of existing roles and positions within the business, especially if this is your first time writing job descriptions.

1. Job Title
2. Brief Summary of The Role
3. Duties and Responsibilities
   1. Qualifications
   2. Education
   3. Experience
4. Technical Knowledge and Skills
5. Salary
6. Benefits
7. Expected Hours and Type of Employment (Full-time, Part-time, or Casual)
8. Which position this position reports to
9. Background information on your business and industry

What are Key performance indicators (KPIs)?

At a business level, a key performance indicator (KPI) is a quantifiable metric that reflects how well a business is achieving its stated goals and objectives.

Employee KPIs are aligned with the overall strategy of the business and ensures what the employee is doing is well aligned with the various operational and strategic goals of the business. For example, a business that aims to be known for its superior customer service may set KPIs around target customer satisfaction scores for any staff that deals directly with clients. 

How do Job Descriptions and KPIs benefit businesses?

In short, a job description and key relevant performance indicators provides a business with simple yet important tools for assessing the fit and performance of new and existing staff in a given role. Not only does this enable human resource managers, and other management, to measure success, but also allows for the identification of which employees need the most support.