Why is it important to maintain up-to-date job descriptions?

Job descriptions are often used not only for recruitment and selection, but also for setting compensation, conducting performance appraisals, and determining training, development, and career management objectives.

Ensuring a job description is accurate and up to date allows both the employee/candidate and the employer to have a shared common understanding of what it is the employee is responsible for in their position. It also protects the employers by ensuring compliance with human rights, occupational health and safety regulations, and general legal compliance in all Canadian jurisdictions.

When duties or qualifications no longer apply or need to be added or revised, this can result in inaccurate training decisions, an unfair performance appraisal, mislead employees and higher turnover, and even legal repercussions.

For these reasons, your company should review existing job descriptions on a periodic schedule to ensure they are accurate and kept up to date as roles change or evolve.