How Do I Write an Effective Job Specification?

What practical skills should I include when writing a job spec?

Start by identifying the core responsibilities of the role. Think about:

• Why are you bringing this expertise in?
• What are the start and end points of the role’s responsibilities?
• What skills are essential from day one, and what can be taught on the job? This helps clarify the must-have skills from the nice-to-haves.

How can I make sure the person fits with our company culture?

Define the behaviours and values that underpin your business. Ask yourself:

• What behaviours do successful team members already demonstrate?
• How do these align with your company’s values? This ensures you’re hiring someone who complements your existing team dynamic.

What should be included in the job description section?

A good job description should be structured and informative. Include:

• About the Company: Who you are and what you do.
• About the Role: A summary of responsibilities, scope, and where the role fits in the business.
• Skills Required: Separate your ‘must-haves’ from ‘nice-to-haves’ to attract a diverse pool of candidates.
• Behaviours and Values: Outline the kind of mindset and work ethic that fit your culture.

Why separate must-have and nice-to-have skills?

Separating essential skills from desirable ones broadens your talent pool and encourages more people from diverse backgrounds to apply. It also helps your hiring manager prioritise candidates more fairly.

How can I make sure the job spec encourages inclusivity?

Use clear, straightforward language. Avoid jargon or overly technical terms that might discourage qualified candidates from applying. Be conscious of gender-coded language and make sure the spec invites a wide range of applicants to consider the opportunity.

If you’re building a team or growing your business, taking time to write a clear, inclusive, and well-structured job specification will help you attract the right people who are aligned with your company’s goals and values