This interesting article from New York Magazine highlights how even high-powered women like Valerie Jarrett know they do a lot, but can’t quite put a finger on it. The job description is amorphous, and it’s worth defining.
A job description is never perfect, but it should be written, periodically reviewed with a direct supervisor and other team members as appropriate, and followed to the extent possible. Usually, there is a catch-all line for flexibility (ie: Assist with other office duties as needed), so neither you nor your company will feel pigeonholed. Having an active and recognized job description is really a win-win for you and the company; it gives you a personal guideline and self-advocacy tool, and it gives your employer a way to evaluate your job proficiency and understand what is on your plate. Plus, when you’re looking to that next step career-wise, whether it’s in the same vein or completely unrelated, you can use this tool to evaluate what has worked for you and what hasn’t.
I’m curious to add some personal anecdotes; what has been your experience with job descriptions?
Jen Bokoff 