The ripples of role descriptions

Role descriptions. Boring, right? Well, maybe they’re not the most exciting part of a job or group effort. But really, they are super useful. And when done right, they bring life, focus and coordination. Without them, there can be confusion, double-up of effort, and dropped balls. 

Role descriptions are kind of like having a cast for a play. You know that this character has certain qualities to express and lines to say. And that character has their own qualities and lines differentiating them from the others. Without this distinction, it wouldn’t be clear who’s doing what. People might try to say the same lines. And it would likely turn out out to be a bit of a shambles. 

They can occur in official work teams, while also having relevance to your family unit and community groups. The point is that they create distinction around who is doing what. 

More than anything, clear and succinct role descriptions allow for expectation management. When I know what’s expected of me in a role, and that’s the same thing you expect of me in a role, then I can go about doing my job with focus and peace-of-mind. I don’t have to concern myself about doing the task you have in your role… because I know you’re doing them. My job is to do the things I’m responsible for. I also have assurance in knowing what I have control over and what I don’t. 

This transparency creates a bunch of trust and clarity. Which ripples into creating more empowered people working together with a clearer sense of purpose and peace.

There is much more to be said about role descriptions. I hope this insight brings more flow to the impact you’re making in the world.
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x Erin 🌿