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Job Description vs. Job Profile; whats the Difference and how can it benefit your as an Employer?

Writer: Tina LeisleTina Leisle

Updated: May 22, 2024

It's important to know that "job profile" and "job description" are not interchangeable terms. A job profile emphasizes the necessary skills, abilities, and traits that are required to excel in a particular position. Conversely, a job description is centered around the specific duties and responsibilities that accompany the job.


A job profile is unique to every job and provides a detailed breakdown of what the job applicant must have in terms of qualifications, skills, experience, abilities, and personality traits to perform the job well.

The purpose of a job profile is to create a clear picture of the ideal candidate, which helps the recruiter or hiring manager to find the right fit for the position.

It usually includes elements like job title, essential duties and responsibilities, required qualifications and education, desirable experience and skills, and personal qualities and traits. Additionally, a job profile may describe the company culture and expectations for the role.


On the other hand, a job description is a more general overview of the duties and responsibilities that the job entails. It provides the job title, essential functions of the position, and qualifications needed to perform the job. The job description may include specific tasks that the employee will perform and how the performance of these tasks will contribute to the company's overall goals. It may also include the expected duration of employment, the schedule, and the salary range.


Job descriptions are often used by companies in job postings, and they are essential for potential employees to understand what the job entails and if their skills match the requirements. Additionally, a job description is used by companies to evaluate employee performance and set goals and expectations.


Ultimately, the biggest difference between a job profile and a job description is the focus. A job description focuses on the exact tasks and duties that the employee will perform, while a job profile focuses on the skillset required for the job.

Hiring managers and recruiters need to create both job profiles and job descriptions to ensure that potential employees understand the job's essential functions. However, it is essential to note that the two concepts are not interchangeable. A job profile helps establish what skills and abilities are required for the job, which can significantly impact the hiring process. Meanwhile, a job description helps outline the exact duties and responsibilities of the position, important for the employee's performance and evaluation.

To better understand the distinction between a job profile and a job description, take a look at the following examples of an Administrative Assistant's job profile and job description presented in a visual format.


Job Description

Title: Administrative Assistant

Department: Administration

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

· Answer and direct phone calls and emails

· Organize and schedule appointments and meetings

· Manage and maintain records and files

· Assist with general administrative tasks and correspondence

· Provide administrative support to other staff members as needed

· Contribute to team effort by accomplishing related tasks as needed

Qualifications:

· High School diploma or equivalent; Associate's Degree preferred

· Proficiency in Microsoft Office and other basic software programs

· Strong communication and organizational skills

· Attention to detail and ability to multitask

Vs.


Job Profile

Title: Administrative Assistant

Department: Administration

Overview:

Our administrative assistant should be an organized and detail-oriented individual who can help keep our office running smoothly. They must be capable of handling multiple tasks at once while maintaining a positive attitude. The ideal candidate will be proactive in their approach to their work and show initiative in solving problems.

Required Qualifications:

· High School diploma or equivalent; Associate's Degree preferred

· At least 2 years of administrative experience

· Strong communication and interpersonal skills

· Excellent organizational skills

· Ability to prioritize and multitask

· Proficiency in Microsoft Office and other basic software programs

· Experience with customer service and administrative support

Desired Personal Qualities:

· Positive and professional attitude

· Detail-oriented and precise

· Good at problem-solving and critical thinking

· Ability to work with little supervision

· Team player with a willingness to learn and assist others


In general, the job description lists the specific duties and requirements necessary to perform the job, while the job profile provides a summary of the ideal candidate's qualifications and personal qualities.

Both are important in attracting the best candidates for the job and ensuring that they understand what is expected of them.


Creating strong job profiles and descriptions is vital to ensure a successful hiring process. A job profile outlines the desired candidate, while a job description provides details about the position's responsibilities and duties. By distinguishing between these two components, employers can attract a diverse pool of highly skilled candidates with different backgrounds and personalities. Additionally, it helps to establish clear job expectations from the outset, which leads to a higher chance of selecting the right candidate and retaining them for the long term. At Red Rock HR, we are prepared and capable of supporting you in creating these essential hiring resources. Message us to learn how we can help you with your recruiting effort






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