Final answer:
The essential functions of a job description outline the core responsibilities and daily tasks of the job, while the job specifications detail the qualifications like education, skills, and experience required to perform these functions.
Step-by-step explanation:
Distinguishing Essential Functions and Job Specifications
The essential functions or job duties section of a job description outlines the core tasks and responsibilities that the job entails. This includes day-to-day activities, the role within the organization, and any key projects or outputs that are expected from the position. For example, a job description for a chef may list preparing dishes according to the menu, managing kitchen staff, and ensuring food safety standards as essential functions.
In contrast, the job specifications section is concerned with the qualifications required by the job candidate. This includes education, skills, experience, and other attributes necessary to perform the essential functions of the job effectively. It might state that the chef needs a culinary arts degree, five years of experience in fine dining, and a food handler's certification. It is important for applicants to review the job specifications and refresh their knowledge in areas where they might have weaknesses, and for employers to determine whether a candidate possesses the required skills during an interview.
To prepare for job searches or interviews, candidates should make a note of what is emphasized in the responsibilities and requirements sections of job descriptions. Observing the day-to-day reality of the job can help in determining if the career aligns with one's preferences. Understanding job specifications is essential, as it details the knowledge, skills, and abilities needed for the role, as noted by Davis and Moore's emphasis on the relation between skill requirements and job importance.