Job Description and Specification Template For UK Employers

According to our latest research in the Work that Works report, 53% of business leaders find recruitment to be a challenge. This isn’t ideal as hiring the right people is one of the most important steps in growing a successful business. So what can business leaders and HR professionals do to improve their hiring and get their hands on top talent?

It starts with a strong job description template. 

A job description template is more than just a list of responsibilities, it’s a clear way of outlining the purpose of the role and expectations from you, as an employer. It helps candidates understand if the role is right for them, supports managers in measuring performance, and helps your business to remain compliant and consistent across your HR processes.

But crafting a role outline from scratch every time you hire can be time-consuming and inconsistent. That’s where a job description template comes in. And Employment Hero is here to help. 

Download the job description template now. 

What is a job description?

A job description, or role overview is a document that outlines the key duties, responsibilities, qualifications and expectations associated with a specific position within a business. 

It serves as a foundational HR tool, providing both employers and employees with a shared understanding of what the role entails and how it contributes to the overall objectives of the business.

A well-crafted job description typically includes:

• Job title and where the role fits within the organisation.
• Primary purpose of the role, describing why the position exists.
• Key responsibilities and tasks the employee will be expected to perform.
• Required skills, qualifications and experience needed to succeed in the role.
• Reporting lines, including who the role reports to and whether it manages others.
• Work conditions or location, including any physical requirements or travel expectations.
• Performance expectations and KPIs to measure success in the role.

What is the difference between a job description and a job specification?

We’ve already identified what a job description template is, but what is a job specification template? And are they different?

The short answer is yes, they are different. Whilst a role overview focuses on what the position involves, a job specification template focuses on what a candidate needs to succeed. 

Key elements of a job specification include:

• Educational qualifications
• Professional certifications
• Required skills and competencies
• Relevant experience
• Personal attributes and behavioural traits
• Physical or legal requirements (if applicable)

Best practices for writing job description templates

It’s important to get your job description template right if you want to attract top talent. But that’s easier said than done. So here are our top tips. 

Use clear language

Write in straightforward, plain English so your job description template is easy to understand. Avoid jargon, internal acronyms, or overly technical language unless essential. 

Be realistic about responsibilities

It’s tempting to list everything under the sun, but overly broad descriptions can deter good candidates. Focus on core responsibilities and expectations rather than adding every minor task the employee may do.

Outline requirements

Clearly separate essential skills and qualifications from nice-to-have attributes. This helps you avoid scaring off good candidates who may not meet every “nice-to-have” but can perform the core role well.

Highlight career development 

Include opportunities for growth or development within the role to attract motivated candidates looking to build their careers with you.

Stay compliant

Ensure your job descriptions adhere to relevant UK employment laws. Avoid discriminatory language and include necessary compliance details, such as working conditions or legal requirements where applicable.

Take advantage of Employment Hero’s job description template

Job description templates play a crucial part in attracting top talent for your business. But we get that as a busy business owner, leader or HR professional, you might not have the time to craft one from scratch. 

This is where our job description template comes in handy! Take the framework our experts have put together and tailor it to suit your business. It’s as easy as that. 

But Employment Hero can do far more than just provide policies and templates. Our Employment Operating System takes the traditional isolated aspects of employment and integrates them into a seamless, human and AI-powered solution that empowers employers, employees and job seekers alike.

Download the job description template. 

FAQs

Is there a standard format for writing job descriptions?

There is no standard format for job description templates. But most effective role outlines follow the same structure to ensure consistency, clarity and legal compliance across your business. 

A standard format will typically include: 

• Job title
• Department and reporting line
• Role purpose and summary
• Location
• Employment type
• Salary range
• Company overview

What should be included in a job specification?

A job specification outlines the key skills, qualifications, experience and attributes required to perform a role effectively. It defines what is needed from the person performing the role. 

Including clear, detailed criteria in your job specification ensures you attract the right candidates while setting clear expectations internally for managers and HR. 

Business owners, leaders and HR professionals should include these things in their job specification template: 

• Qualifications
• Skills and competencies 
• Experience
• Personal attributes
• Legal or compliance requirements

Should I include company culture or values?

Yes, including your company culture and values in a job description template is highly recommended.

While the primary purpose of a job description is to outline the role, responsibilities, and requirements, embedding your company culture and values within the document helps attract candidates who align with your organisation’s way of working and mission.

How do job descriptions support performance reviews and promotions?

Job description templates aren’t just for hiring, they are a critical tool for managing and retaining top talent. 

They directly support performance reviews and promotions within your business by: 

• Establishing clear expectations
• Assisting with goal setting
• Provide an objective assessment framework
• Identify development opportunities
• Support promotion decisions
• Keep accountability clear