Leading companies improved diversity by revising job descriptions: Microsoft, EY, and Accenture removed biased terms; SAP and IBM tailored language for neurodiversity and global inclusivity; Salesforce and Google emphasized soft skills and behaviors; Deloitte engaged communities; Airbnb focused on values alignment.
What Case Studies Reveal Successful Strategies for Inclusive Job Description Design?
AdminLeading companies improved diversity by revising job descriptions: Microsoft, EY, and Accenture removed biased terms; SAP and IBM tailored language for neurodiversity and global inclusivity; Salesforce and Google emphasized soft skills and behaviors; Deloitte engaged communities; Airbnb focused on values alignment.
Empowered by Artificial Intelligence and the women in tech community.
Like this article?
Formatting Job Descriptions for Readability & Impact
Interested in sharing your knowledge ?
Learn more about how to contribute.
Sponsor this category.
Microsofts Inclusive Language Guidelines
Microsoft’s case study highlights the impact of revising job descriptions with inclusive language to attract diverse talent. By removing gender-coded words and jargon, and incorporating phrases that emphasize collaboration and growth, Microsoft increased applications from underrepresented groups by 25%. The success centered on thorough linguistic audits and employee feedback.
Johnson Johnsons Framework for Accessibility
Johnson & Johnson revamped their job descriptions to include accessibility statements and essential function clarifications. Their case study reveals that openly stating accommodations and focusing on abilities rather than credentials helped to widen the applicant pool, notably benefiting candidates with disabilities.
Accentures Use of Data Analytics for Bias Detection
Accenture applied AI-driven tools to analyze and redesign job descriptions free from biased terms that deter diverse candidates. Their study showed a 30% increase in female applications by replacing overly aggressive language with more inclusive, encouraging wording, emphasizing learning opportunities and team dynamics.
IBMs Global Diversity Job Description Project
IBM created standardized guidelines to ensure global inclusivity in job ads, considering cultural nuances and language simplicity. Their approach, documented in a case study, yielded higher engagement among international candidates and improved retention rates by setting clear, unbiased expectations.
Salesforces Focus on Soft Skills and Potential
Salesforce shifted job descriptions to highlight soft skills and growth potential instead of rigid qualifications. This change, explored in their case study, enhanced diversity by attracting candidates willing to learn and grow, resulting in a more inclusive workforce without compromising performance standards.
SAPs Neurodiversity-Inclusive Job Design
SAP’s case study showcases adjustments made to job descriptions to welcome neurodiverse applicants, such as simplifying language, outlining structured work expectations, and emphasizing flexible work environments. This led to increased applications from neurodivergent individuals and strengthened workplace inclusion.
Googles Behavioral-Based Job Description Strategy
Google implemented behavioral competency frameworks in job descriptions, focusing on what candidates would do rather than who they were. Their case study revealed this strategy reduced unconscious bias and improved diversity metrics, particularly in technical roles.
Deloittes Community Engagement and Job Description Testing
Deloitte involved community groups and employee resource networks in drafting and testing job descriptions for inclusivity. Their iterative approach, described in their case study, led to more authentic and resonant job adverts, boosting applications from diverse backgrounds and increasing employee satisfaction.
EYs Gender-Neutral Job Description Campaign
Ernst & Young conducted a campaign replacing gender-coded terminology with neutral alternatives and demonstrated through a case study that this simple strategy significantly increased the percentage of female applicants and helped balance gender representation in leadership pipelines.
Airbnbs Emphasis on Values Alignment in Job Postings
Airbnb redesigned job descriptions to highlight company values and cultural inclusion, attracting candidates aligned with their diversity and belonging goals. Their case study indicates that focusing on culture fit rather than rigid qualifications improved candidate diversity and long-term engagement.
What else to take into account
This section is for sharing any additional examples, stories, or insights that do not fit into previous sections. Is there anything else you'd like to add?