Job Descriptions Essential Components of Job Descriptions 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: What is the difference between a 'duty' and a 'competency' in a job description?
- A duty is a skill; a competency is a task
- A duty is a task the employee performs; a competency is a skill or behavior needed to perform it well (Correct answer)
- They are interchangeable terms
- Duties apply to hourly workers; competencies apply to salaried workers
Correct answer: A duty is a task the employee performs; a competency is a skill or behavior needed to perform it well
Duties describe what the employee does, while competencies describe how they need to think and behave to succeed in those duties.
Question 2: Why might an employer include an EEO statement in a job description?
- To describe the employee stock ownership plan
- To affirm the company's commitment to non-discriminatory hiring practices (Correct answer)
- To list the Equal Employment Opportunity salary grade
- To satisfy payroll tax requirements
Correct answer: To affirm the company's commitment to non-discriminatory hiring practices
An EEO statement signals legal compliance and commitment to diversity, encouraging candidates from all backgrounds to apply.
Question 3: What role does the FLSA classification play in a job description?
- It determines the job title format
- It indicates whether the role is exempt or non-exempt from overtime pay requirements (Correct answer)
- It sets the benefits package
- It defines the performance review cycle
Correct answer: It indicates whether the role is exempt or non-exempt from overtime pay requirements
FLSA classification (exempt vs. non-exempt) determines overtime eligibility and must be accurate to ensure legal compliance.
Question 4: What is the significance of the 'Preferred Qualifications' section?
- These are absolute requirements candidates must meet
- These are additional skills that would make a candidate more competitive but are not required (Correct answer)
- These replace the minimum qualifications section
- These are negotiated during the offer stage
Correct answer: These are additional skills that would make a candidate more competitive but are not required
Preferred qualifications help employers identify stronger candidates while still leaving the door open for those who only meet the minimum requirements.
Question 5: What should the 'Schedule and Hours' section of a job description communicate?
- The history of the department's work hours
- Whether the role is full-time, part-time, shift-based, or flexible, and any overtime expectations (Correct answer)
- The candidate's desired shift preference
- Annual leave accrual rates
Correct answer: Whether the role is full-time, part-time, shift-based, or flexible, and any overtime expectations
Schedule details help candidates determine whether the role's timing works with their personal commitments before they apply.
Question 6: Why is including a 'Benefits' section in a job description increasingly important?
- It is mandated by the Affordable Care Act for all employers
- It differentiates the employer in a competitive market and attracts candidates who value total compensation (Correct answer)
- It replaces the need for an offer letter
- It is required for EEOC compliance
Correct answer: It differentiates the employer in a competitive market and attracts candidates who value total compensation
A compelling benefits section helps employers stand out when competing for top talent who compare total compensation packages.
Job Descriptions Essential Components of Job Descriptions 2
What is the difference between a 'duty' and a 'competency' in a job description?