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What's the difference between a 'job description' and a 'job ad'?
Why do so many companies post job descriptions as job ads?
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4 Answers
The simple answer is, "write once, use many times". The job description is already written up, or should be before the interviewing of applicants. Using the job description in the job ad is an excellent way to help cut down on under- and over-qualified applicants, as they can match their skills to the tasks described and decide if they would be a good fit before applying. The job add will also usually add statements about the conditions of the job (full-time, part-time, etc.), presence of benefits, shift schedule and the like, that do not form part of the job description.
The simple answer is, "write once, use many times". The job description is already written up, or should be before the interviewing of applicants. Using the job description in the job ad is an excellent way to help cut down on under- and over-qualified applicants, as they can match their skills to the tasks described and decide if they would be a good fit before applying. The job add will also usually add statements about the conditions of the job (full-time, part-time, etc.), presence of benefits, shift schedule and the like, that do not form part of the job description.
A Job Description is the complete outline of position responsibilities, content and KSA requirements, usually accompanied by a list of typical tasks; it is typically used by the incumbent as a guideline for performance areas. A Job Ad is a promotional piece presented to attract qualified candidates for that detailed position; it is what draws people in to apply for the job and can (and should) be used to clarify minimum entry standards and screen applicants.
Frequently, the responses to the Job Ad will govern the eventual content of the final Job Description, because the qualifications of the available applicants may require revisions to the Job Description as originally conceived. If you can't find the match you want, you may need to change your expectations, re-engineer the function and redesign the Job Description.
Posting the complete Job Description is a form of full disclosure that anticipates questions and can save interviewer time.
In addition to what was stated in the prior responses, I'd also add that the job ad should include a bit of information about the company and any other key information that will attract the type of talent that will be a good fit for your organization. The job ad is a way to promote your organization so that people are excited to apply for the job. And, of course, as was stated, including the full job description within the job ad will help filter out those who do not meet the qualifications of the position.
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