How to Use Results-Oriented Job Standards

Job Standards are used to:

• Establish job requirements
• Distinguish one organization’s results from another
• Appraise employee performance
• Train employees to improve performance
• Coach employees to surpass job expectations
• Set job goals
• Clarify job objectives
• Explain the impact of job errors

Job Standards make the most sense and add the most clarity for employees when they are inserted into the job description just below the corresponding job result.

For example, here are the Job Standards directly associated with a job responsibility for a waiter/waitress:

PREPARES TABLES FOR DINING by

cleaning and covering tables; setting utensils, napkins, decorations, condiments, candles, and service plates.

Job Standards:

• Tables are ready for diner’s reservation.
• Tables are prepared as soon as possible after diners leave.
• Tables are cleaned and table cloths are changed for each reservation.
• Table setting adheres to layout guide.

Job Standards—along with a job description, job objectives, and job-specific employee management forms—are an integral part of a total Results-Oriented Management Strategy. Job Standards set the tone and style of accomplishments.