We Asked AI to Write 5 Job Descriptions—Here’s What We Learned

Artificial intelligence is shaping the world of work. Organizations are leveraging the technology to interpret data, streamline processes, and predict trends. In HR, it has demonstrated its ability to improve functions, such as by analyzing hundreds of resumes in seconds to find qualified candidates for recruitment.

SHRM has a growing library of AI resources dedicated to supporting business innovations.

And at the SHRM Annual Conference & Expo 2024, you will have the opportunity to hear from Main Stage speakers including Melissa Daley on Navigating the AI Landscape in HR: When to Rely on Generative AI vs. Consulting Expertise, Todd Mitchem on AI and Humanity in Harmony: Navigating the Future of HR with Intelligent Adaptation, and Lindsay Zuloaga on Human Potential Intelligence: How AI Is Revolutionizing Talent Acquisition.

However, this developing technology is not without its faults, sometimes producing results that need a human touch to expand and refine or making you do a double take, wondering how it came up with the information it did. We decided to put AI programs such as Jasper and ChatGPT to the test by asking them to create some common job descriptions. How do you think they did?

First up: HR roles. Here’s the prompt we used: “Act as human resources professional in need of fulfilling roles for your organization with quality candidates. Please create job descriptions for the following three roles: Human Resources Manager, Talent Acquisition Specialist, Employee Engagement Coordinator.”

Human Resources Manager

Job Summary:

The Human Resources Manager is responsible for overseeing all aspects of human resources practices and processes. The ideal candidate will support business needs and ensure the proper implementation of the company strategy and objectives.

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop and implement HR strategies and initiatives aligned with the overall business strategy.
• Develop and monitor overall HR strategies, systems, tactics, and procedures across the organization.
• Nurture a positive working environment.
• Oversee and manage a performance appraisal system that drives high performance.
• Report to management and provide decision support through HR metrics.
• Ensure legal compliance throughout human resource management.

Qualifications:

• People-oriented and results-driven.
• Demonstrable experience with human resources metrics.
• Knowledge of HR systems and databases.
• In-depth knowledge of labor law and HR best practices.
• BS/MS degree in Human Resources or related field.

Talent Acquisition Specialist

Job Summary:

The Talent Acquisition Specialist is responsible for sourcing, attracting, interviewing, hiring, and onboarding employees in the organization. This role will collaborate with department managers on a regular basis and proactively identify future hiring needs.

Key Responsibilities:

• Determine selection criteria.
• Source potential candidates through online channels (e.g., social platforms and professional networks).
• Plan interview and selection procedures, including screening calls, assessments, and in-person interviews.

Qualifications:

• Proven work experience as a Talent Acquisition Specialist or similar role.
• Hands-on experience with full-cycle recruiting using various interview techniques and evaluation methods.
• Knowledge of Applicant Tracking Systems (ATSs).
• BS in Human Resources Management or relevant field.

Employee Engagement Coordinator

Job Summary:

The Employee Engagement Coordinator is responsible for planning, managing, and executing programs that enhance employee engagement and satisfaction. This role aims to foster a positive and productive workplace culture.

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop and implement employee engagement programs and activities.
• Collaborate with management to understand and address employee concerns.
• Communicate engagement initiatives and programs to all employees.
• Create and distribute employee newsletters and communications.
• Foster a positive work environment by implementing creative and engaging activities.

Qualifications:

• Strong organizational and project management skills.
• Creative thinking and problem-solving skills.
• Proficiency in MS Office and HR software.
• BA/BS in Human Resources, Business Administration, or related field.

What We Learned About General Job Descriptions

AI created the job descriptions in consistent layouts, organizing the summary, responsibilities, and qualifications in bullet points. It gave points that could be used as a template for future descriptions. Where AI fell short was the summaries, which require a human touch to expand on them. This could be further developed by improving the prompts and giving additional guidance to build out the summaries.

So, what happens if AI is left to its own devices and asked to come up with something more original without guidance? Some job titles don’t offer much context, using trendy buzzwords and aspirational language to lure in candidates. Here’s an example of some offbeat job descriptions made up by AI for a Chief Fun Officer and Ninja of Networking. This is the prompt we used: “You are trying to create a fun, engaging culture to attract diverse talent. Please write two job descriptions for an executive-level role and a mid-to-senior level HR role that stand out. Get creative!”

Chief Fun Officer (CFO)

Job Summary:

Are you the life of the party? Do you believe that a workplace without fun is like a cake without frosting? We need a Chief Fun Officer to keep our office buzzing with excitement and joy. Your mission: turn frowns upside down and transform mundane Mondays into Marvelous Mondays!

Responsibilities:

• Organize surprise dance-offs and spontaneous karaoke sessions.
• Ensure every coffee break is accompanied by freshly baked cookies.
• Maintain a playlist of "workday anthems" to boost morale.
• Develop a reward system based on the frequency of high-fives.

Requirements:

• A degree in Party Planning or a related field (clown school graduates welcome).
• Proven ability to juggle multiple tasks... literally.
• Exceptional sense of humor and an unshakeable positive attitude.
• Experience in prank wars and office decorating is a plus.

Ninja of Networking (NoN)

Job Summary:

Stealthy, strategic, and socially savvy—our company needs a Ninja of Networking to stealthily connect us with top talent and industry leaders. Your covert operations will ensure we remain ahead in the game of talent acquisition.

Responsibilities:

• Conduct undercover recruiting missions at industry events.
• Build and maintain an elite network of professional contacts.
• Use your ninja skills to identify and engage with potential hires on social media.
• Train the team in the ancient art of LinkedIn prowess.

Requirements:

• Master’s degree in Networking Arts or equivalent experience.
• Proficiency in silent communication and quick getaways.
• Ability to blend into any social environment.
• Familiarity with smoke bombs is a bonus but not required.

What We Learned About Unique Job Descriptions

While creative and entertaining to read, the job descriptions don’t provide much clarity and could be confusing to candidates. If HR recruiters do use unique job titles, adding details is important, such as required years of experience, programs, and specific duties.

Overall, using AI is an excellent jumping-off point for ideating and building a framework for job descriptions, but human ingenuity is needed to refine and tailor them to your organization’s needs.