- Use bullet statements, not run-on sentences. Short and sweet. Focus on key words. A rule of thumb is to have at least four, and no more than eight bullets. Beyond that you’re either repeating or listing secondary tasks.
- Start each bullet with a strong verb, like plan, develop, advise, operate, design, prepare, etc. Powerful action more easily identifies either a direct or support role.
- Avoid weak verbs like assist (what does that mean?), coordinate or work with. Here the reader isn’t exactly sure of the job’s impact.
- Focus on the key responsibilities. The reader should come away with a clear understanding of the job’s main points.
- Avoid flowery language, puffery that adds little clarity. “Drive and have a passion for x”, “Be the expert for . . “ and “serve as a thought partner”
- Throw away subjective adjectives that aim at the how, not the what (excellent, strong, persuasive, collaborative, successfully, smart, solid, immense, aggressive, etc.).
- Write the description as if there’s no incumbent. Don’t be influenced by an employee’s background and experience.
- Write the Basic Purpose last. Once you’ve already prepared the bullets it’s straightforward to complete the summary.
- Know when to stop. Some writers can’t help themselves – especially when listing the job tasks. They go on and on detailing secondary and minor tasks, not every aspect of the job has equal importance.