Use gender-neutral, culturally sensitive, and accessible language in job descriptions. Clearly state DEI values, emphasize equal opportunity, focus on skills over credentials, offer accommodations, avoid unnecessary barriers, showcase inclusive culture and growth, use diverse imagery, and invite applicant feedback.
How Do We Showcase Genuine Commitment to DEI in Job Descriptions?
AdminUse gender-neutral, culturally sensitive, and accessible language in job descriptions. Clearly state DEI values, emphasize equal opportunity, focus on skills over credentials, offer accommodations, avoid unnecessary barriers, showcase inclusive culture and growth, use diverse imagery, and invite applicant feedback.
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Use Inclusive Language
Ensure that job descriptions use gender-neutral, culturally sensitive, and accessible language. Avoid jargon and terms that may unintentionally exclude certain groups. Tools like gender decoder can help identify biased terms and promote inclusivity from the outset.
Highlight Your DEI Values Clearly
Explicitly state your organization’s commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion within the job description. This can include mentioning DEI as a core value, referencing any ongoing initiatives, or linking to your company’s DEI statement to show that this commitment is integral to your culture.
Emphasize Equal Opportunity
Include a strong equal employment opportunity (EEO) statement that goes beyond legal requirements. Clearly articulate that candidates from all backgrounds, identities, and experiences are encouraged to apply, and that the company fosters an environment free from discrimination.
Focus on Skills and Potential Not Just Credentials
Encourage applicants with diverse experiences by emphasizing skills, competencies, and potential over traditional degrees or specific credentials. This helps remove barriers that might exclude qualified candidates from underrepresented groups.
Specify Accommodations Are Available
Show your genuine commitment by stating that reasonable accommodations will be made during the hiring process. This signals that people with disabilities and others who need adjustments are welcome and supported.
Include a Statement on Workplace Culture
Describe how your workplace promotes inclusion, collaboration, and respect for diversity. Share examples such as Employee Resource Groups (ERGs), mentorship programs, or cultural celebrations that demonstrate a lived commitment beyond words.
Avoid Unnecessary Requirements
Be mindful not to include overly strict or unnecessary requirements that disproportionately exclude marginalized groups—for example, excessive years of experience or arbitrary qualifications—unless they are essential for job performance.
Highlight Growth and Development Opportunities
Show that your company prioritizes equity by detailing career advancement opportunities, training programs, and support systems that help employees from diverse backgrounds thrive and grow.
Use Representative Imagery When Possible
If your job postings are accompanied by images, choose ones that reflect diversity and inclusion authentically. This helps create an immediate visual message that diverse candidates are valued.
Invite Feedback and Questions
Encourage prospective applicants to reach out with questions related to the hiring process or accommodations. This openness demonstrates a transparent, respectful, and supportive approach to recruiting diverse talent.
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?