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Preparing a Person Specification
The best way to explain a person specification is to refer to the definition itself:
"A Person Specification defines a job in human terms. It identifies the kind of person needed to fulfil the demands of the job by outlining the characteristics and attributes considered essential or desirable in the ideal candidate."
Whilst the job description describes the job itself, the person specification broadens the picture to match the likely candidate to the demands of the job. This is a general "catch-all" which covers any other information necessary in order to describe the job accurately, e.g. the specific type of tasks to be carried out in their day to day work, whether special training in a particular IT system needs to be carried out, etc.
Whichever classification system is adopted, it is practical to consider which attributes are desirable and which essential - i.e. to distinguish the more important attributes needed to perform the job. For some positions these considerations might not be deemed important; however, in others it would be critical.
Attainments
In broad terms, this relates to education, qualifications, experience and the relevant level the candidate may have studied to or previously experienced.
General Intelligence
This is often, but erroneously, confused with educational attainments. General intelligence refers to the practical application of knowledge in a problem solving situation or quickness and accuracy of comprehension. This heading also includes general common sense and the ability to use initiative and analytical skills.
It can be difficult to assess this element of a candidate's personality objectively, although often a choice between two similarly qualified and experienced candidates may rest on this point.
For this reason, an increasing number of companies are now using psychometric testing to assess the general intelligence of candidates.
Disposition
This element covers personality aspects such as extrovert or introvert tendencies, influential capabilities, dependability, self reliance, stability, team spirit, etc.
You should consider acceptability and ability to interact with others and to work effectively in the particular work role and environment.
An example of this, within attainment could be what level of accountancy / treasury qualification is essential to the role and what is just desirable? Is it CIMA, ACCA, ACA, AMCT or MCT? Which are desirable and which essential?MR |
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