Person specification

  • Helps you choose the right person for a role
  • Guidance provided to assist you
  • Works alongside our template job description

A person specification sets out the skills and attributes you are looking for in your ideal applicant for a role.

This template will help you to distinguish between the minimum necessary criteria and those which, while desirable, are not vital for the role. It will also guide you on how to avoid using discriminatory language or criteria in your person specification.

Having an accurate and clear job description, that is not too prescriptive, can help you to pick the right person for the role.

This person specification should be used alongside Job description.

Q&A

  • When should I use this document?

    This template person specification is intended to be used if you are recruiting a new member of staff for your business. It should be used alongside Job description when you are advertising a job.

  • What does this document cover?

    This person specification includes options for you to set out what is required from an applicant including:

    • education;
    • qualifications;
    • experience;
    • skills; and
    • personal qualities.
  • Why do I need this document?

    Having an accurate and clear person specification helps you to choose the right person for the role.

    If your person specification is too prescriptive, you risk potential applicants deciding against applying. If your person specification is too vague, you may receive a large number of applications from unsuitable candidates.

    This person specification includes the relevant criteria that are important for filling a role. It also includes pointers on how to avoid using discriminatory language or criteria in your person specification.

  • Where can I find out more?

    See Hiring staff for how to carry out a recruitment process including the other documents that you are required to produce.

    This person specification should be used alongside Job description.

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