You may hear someone in the office say,

That’s not my job, why should I do that?

Why does this happen? Is it just normal for such things to be heard in the office?

It may seem unprofessional to hear someone complain about the tasks included in his responsibility; however, this really happens in a work setting. This is because a lot of people care much of their pride and do not want to do work not specified in their job description. Conversely, some do not want their co-employees to think that they are assuming the responsibility of someone else to capture the bosses’ attention and get a better position after quite some time.

Here comes a document to clarify your employees’ roles and responsibilities – a well-defined Job Description or JD that should include every single detail that an employee of that particular position is responsible for.

The function of your JD starts at the time of hiring to fill in the position. Giving ample information to the applicant about the responsibilities inclusive in the position he is applying for could instantly give him an overview about his responsibilities in case he gets the job. This prevents the company from hiring delinquent and irresponsible people. At the instant the applicant got aware of a responsibility he does not want to do or a job that requires extra effort that he is not willing to give; he could instantly drop the application.

JDs also help in increasing your employees’ morale for the JD sets the boundaries between a fairly and excellently accomplished job. It also gives your employees an idea about the career path they have to take from the position they are currently into all the way to the position they want to get someday.

A copy of the JD should be given to the employees for them to be reminded of the tasks and responsibilities they need to do. Have them sign your master list as a proof of receipt of the document. Their signature implies that they have the responsibility to read, understand and comply with the details stated in the Job Description.

This document is a very useful tool used by HRs worldwide to set the responsibilities of their employees. Having a clear JD prevents them from saying “I shouldn’t do that, that’s not my job!” On the other hand, the management’s responsibility still remains in ensuring proper work distribution and equal growth opportunities always.