From one company to another, and sometimes within the same company, we note that the definitions of positions and skills remain vague. Worse sometimes, managers use the same term with different meanings.
For the sake of clarification, we have endeavored below to list the most commonly used definitions and to note the variety of meanings when the terms remained imprecise.
Table of Contents
The position: The essence of the pyramid organization
A position is a set of predefined tasks assigned to one or more employees within an organization. It is an elementary part of the pyramid structure of the company.
Read Also: Work Addiction: Understanding and Overcoming Workaholism
However, in practice, the notion of post can be ambiguous. Indeed, it can refer to the function occupied (for example, general manager), to the activities carried out (for example, business manager), or even to the job itself (for example, commercial purchase). Clarification of the responsibilities associated with each position is therefore essential for a well-structured organization.
The function: The professional role in the company
The function is defined as the exercise of a specific profession within a given company. It encompasses a set of missions and tasks related to specific areas of expertise.
From an organizational point of view, the function often groups together missions of the same nature to facilitate skills management. Thus, the precise definition of the functions within a company makes it possible to establish a clear vision of the roles and responsibilities of each one.
Read Also: Embracing Self-Taught Candidates: Evolution of Hiring Practices
Activities: Objectives and Versatility
Activities are the objectives to be achieved by employees. They often require a capacity for self-organization and versatility. By implementing the concept of qualifying organization, companies encourage their employees to develop a range of skills adapted to the different tasks they will have to perform. The activities are therefore closely linked to the skills needed to carry them out.
Skills Used: Essential Knowledge in Action
The skills used correspond to the essential knowledge put into practice within the company. They encompass four fundamental aspects: knowledge, know-how, interpersonal skills and the ability to evolve. These skills play a crucial role in the overall performance of the company and enable employees to carry out their responsibilities effectively.
bis. The profession: A coherent set of skills
The job is a coherent set of skills that includes knowledge, know-how, interpersonal skills and the ability to evolve. In other words, it represents a specific area of ​​expertise in which an individual can excel. The clear definition of jobs within a company promotes a better match between employees and available positions.
Read Also: Constructing an employee Training Plan: Aligning Strategy with Needs
Validated skills: Recognition and evaluation
Validated skills are those that have been recognized and sanctioned by the company. They are subject to a validation process, which can include employee statements, observations of behavior at work, or even surveys with a 360-degree assessment. This official recognition makes it possible to promote the skills of employees and strengthen their motivation.
Personal skills: Between aspirations and realities
Personal skills represent all the aptitudes possessed by an individual, whether they are actually implemented within the company or not. The possible difference between the personal skills and the skills used can reveal deficiencies in the management of human resources. It is essential for companies to identify these gaps and put in place professional development plans for their employees.
The potential: Skills projected into the future
The potential corresponds to the skills projected into the future of an individual. However, it is important to note that this is a prognosis marred by hazards. Potential refers to skills that employees could develop in the future through training or gaining new experiences. Companies that recognize the potential of their employees and invest in their development will have a long-term competitive advantage.
Read Also: How to Develop a Strong Employer Brand in HR ?
Conclusion: qualifications and skills
In conclusion, clearly defining the qualifications and skills within a company is essential to ensure an efficient organization and fulfilled employees. By establishing precise descriptions of positions, functions and skills used, companies can facilitate human resource management, improve employee motivation and optimize their overall performance.Edit
Read Also: Leveraging Social Media for Human Resources