What Are the Best Practices for Creating Inclusive Job Postings That Attract Diverse Tech Talent?

To create inclusive job postings, use gender-neutral, bias-free language and highlight diversity commitments. Focus on essential qualifications, offer flexible work options, avoid biased requirements, and use diverse imagery. Emphasize growth, accessibility, reach candidates via varied platforms, and encourage diverse applicants.

To create inclusive job postings, use gender-neutral, bias-free language and highlight diversity commitments. Focus on essential qualifications, offer flexible work options, avoid biased requirements, and use diverse imagery. Emphasize growth, accessibility, reach candidates via varied platforms, and encourage diverse applicants.

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Use Inclusive Language

Craft job descriptions with gender-neutral and bias-free language. Avoid jargon and terms that might deter underrepresented groups, such as overly aggressive words like “dominate” or “rockstar.” Tools like Textio can help identify and replace non-inclusive language to make postings welcoming to all.

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Highlight Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion

Explicitly state your organization’s dedication to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. Mention any existing employee resource groups, diversity initiatives, or inclusive policies to signal a supportive environment for candidates from varied backgrounds.

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Focus on Essential Qualifications

Limit the list of qualifications to those truly necessary for the role. Overloading job postings with “nice-to-have” skills can discourage candidates, especially those from underrepresented groups, from applying if they do not meet every requirement.

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Promote Flexible Work Options

Include information about remote work, flexible hours, or part-time opportunities if applicable. Flexibility can be a crucial factor in attracting diverse talent, including caregivers, people with disabilities, and those outside traditional work hubs.

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Avoid Biased Requirements

Reevaluate prerequisites that disproportionately exclude certain groups, such as demanding specific degrees or years of experience that might not be essential for job success. Consider skills-based assessments or alternative qualifications as part of the criteria.

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Use Diverse Imagery and Branding

Incorporate images and branding in job postings that reflect diversity in gender, ethnicity, age, and ability. This visual cue helps candidates envision themselves within the company culture and signals inclusivity.

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Emphasize Growth and Learning Opportunities

Highlight pathways for career development, mentorship programs, and continuous learning. Diverse candidates often seek environments where they can grow and feel supported, so showcasing these aspects is attractive.

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Provide Accessibility Information

Ensure the job posting and application process are accessible to people with disabilities. Mention accommodations available during the interview process, such as sign language interpreters or alternative formats.

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Use Multiple Platforms to Reach Diverse Candidates

Distribute job postings on platforms and communities frequented by underrepresented groups, such as diversity-focused job boards, tech groups, and organizations supporting women, minorities, and veterans in tech.

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Invite and Encourage Diverse Applicants

Explicitly encourage candidates from diverse backgrounds to apply, emphasizing that the company values varied perspectives. This direct invitation can empower candidates who might otherwise self-select out.

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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?

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