Creating an inclusive job application process is essential for attracting a diverse talent pool. Inclusive hiring practices foster a more diverse workplace and lead to greater innovation and productivity. Yet findings from the CIDP’s Inclusion at Work 2022 report showed that just 30% of employers say their leaders are completely committed to having an inclusive and diverse workforce. How can we change this? Here are some straightforward steps to ensure your job application process is inclusive.
- Write Inclusive Job Descriptions
Start with transparent and inclusive job descriptions. Avoid jargon and overly complex language that might deter potential candidates. Use gender-neutral terms and focus on the skills and experience needed for the job. For example, instead of saying “chairman,” use “chairperson.”
Tip: Tools like Textio can help identify biased language in your job postings.
- Broaden Your Job Advertising
Advertise your job openings on a variety of platforms to reach a wider audience. Use mainstream job boards as well as platforms that cater to underrepresented groups. Additionally, share job postings on social media and through professional networks.
Tip: Partner with organisations that promote diversity and inclusion in the workplace to help spread the word about your vacancies.
- Simplify the Application Process
A complicated application process can be a barrier to many potential candidates. Make sure your application process is straightforward and user-friendly. Limit the number of mandatory fields and allow candidates to upload their CVs directly. Avoid asking for unnecessary information that could lead to unconscious bias.
Tip: Test your application process to ensure it is accessible to everyone, including those with disabilities.
- Implement Blind Recruitment
Blind recruitment involves removing personal information such as names, ages, and genders from applications. This helps to eliminate unconscious bias and ensures candidates are assessed solely on their skills and experience.
Tip: Many applicant tracking systems (ATS) offer features that support blind recruitment or work with an agency like Spotlight Recruitment who are experienced in managing blind recruitment processes
- Provide Bias Training for Recruiters
Unconscious bias can affect every stage of the hiring process. Providing training for your recruitment team can help them recognise and mitigate their biases. This training should cover the importance of diversity and how to implement inclusive hiring practices.
Tip: Regularly update and refresh training to keep it relevant and effective.
- Offer Flexible Interview Options
Not all candidates can attend traditional in-person interviews. Offering flexible interview options, such as video interviews or after-hours slots, can accommodate those with different needs and schedules.
Tip: Ensure your interview process is accessible to candidates with disabilities, such as providing sign language interpreters, providing set questions in advance or ensuring venues are wheelchair-accessible.
- Seek Feedback and Continuously Improve
Finally, continuously seek feedback from candidates about your application process and be open to making improvements. Regularly reviewing and updating your recruitment practices will help ensure they remain inclusive and effective.
Tip: Use anonymous surveys to gather honest candidate feedback about their experience.
Creating an inclusive job application process is not just about fairness; it’s also about harnessing a diverse range of talents and perspectives. By implementing these simple steps, your organisation can attract a wider pool of candidates and foster a more inclusive workplace. Companies with inclusive hiring practices are more likely to lead in innovation, benefiting everyone in the long run.
Still trying to figure out where to begin? Spotlight Recruitment has worked with a wide range of clients in all sectors, finding them the most talented candidates in marketing, communications, digital, and design. Our team likes to do recruitment differently, making it an inclusive and successful process for everyone.
