Defining an Employee's Duties

Many restaurant managers never take time out of their hectic schedules to write job descriptions for their employees, But if they did, they would actually save a huge amount of time in the long run.

Among other things, job descriptions serve as:

• Selection criteria. Job descriptions are intended to help an employer determine whether a person is qualified to perform a job.

• Expectation setters. They help set the expectations for employees, so there are no surprises, we recommend giving an employee a copy of the job description when he or she interviews for a position and again when he or she starts the job.

• Training tools. Managers can use job descriptions as training checklists.

• Feedback forums. Job descriptions can also serve as relevant, objective criteria upon which to evaluate employees.

• Protection against litigation. Job descriptions can help shield restaurants from wrongful-discharge, discrimination and other lawsuits. Having a job description in place can help defend your action. Creating written, detailed, comprehensive position descriptions will assist you in making appropriate and fair employment decisions.

Basic elements

Every job description should contain the following items:

• Job title

• Title of immediate supervisor

• Position summary. Provide a general description of the job, its responsibilities and the required skills.

• Tasks and competencies. Outline the job's tasks (duties) and competencies (skills needed to accomplish the tasks). Be sure to include a line that says, "Other duties as assigned." This gives you the flexibility to adjust an employee's duties as needed and provides the worker with the opportunity to grow in the position.

• Prerequisites. List the required education, experience and physical abilities needed to perform the job.

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