Open job descriptions with a clear DEI commitment, use inclusive language, highlight diverse benefits, showcase DEI achievements, and minimize unnecessary requirements. Encourage all to apply, describe inclusive hiring, offer DEI training, share diverse voices, and display an expanded EEO statement.
Which Strategies Best Highlight DEI Commitment in Tech Job Descriptions?
AdminOpen job descriptions with a clear DEI commitment, use inclusive language, highlight diverse benefits, showcase DEI achievements, and minimize unnecessary requirements. Encourage all to apply, describe inclusive hiring, offer DEI training, share diverse voices, and display an expanded EEO statement.
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Explicitly State DEI Commitment Early in the Job Description
Open the job description with a clear statement about your company’s commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI). This up-front approach signals to candidates that DEI is a foundational value, not an afterthought. Example: “We are passionate about building a diverse and inclusive team that reflects the communities we serve.
Use Inclusive Language and Avoid Jargon
Adopt gender-neutral and accessible language throughout the posting. Replace masculine-coded words (e.g., “rockstar,” “ninja”) with neutral alternatives, and avoid unnecessary corporate or technical jargon that may present barriers to diverse applicants.
List Diverse Benefits and Accommodations
Highlight benefits that support DEI, such as flexible working arrangements, mental health resources, family leave policies, and employee resource groups. Clearly mention accommodations available for candidates with disabilities during the application or interview process.
Showcase DEI Achievements and Initiatives
Incorporate short descriptions or links to your organization’s active DEI programs, awards, or public diversity reports. Mention employee-led groups, recent DEI events, or mentorship schemes to provide concrete examples of ongoing efforts rather than abstract commitments.
Minimize Unnecessary Requirements
Review qualification criteria to remove unnecessary degree or experience requirements that might dissuade capable applicants from non-traditional backgrounds. Focus on essential skills and emphasize that equivalent experience is valued.
Invite All Applicants to Apply
Include encouraging phrases such as: “If you don’t meet every qualification, but are enthusiastic about this role, we encourage you to apply.” This helps counteract self-selection out of the pipeline by candidates from underrepresented backgrounds.
Highlight Inclusive Hiring Processes
Describe steps taken to reduce bias in hiring, such as blind resume reviews or diverse interviewing panels. Mentioning these efforts demonstrates your proactive stance and reassures candidates about a fair process.
Reference DEI Training and Development Opportunities
Inform candidates about ongoing training and development opportunities that address DEI topics for all staff. This shows a continued commitment to growth and education in fostering inclusion.
Emphasize Equal Opportunity Employer Status
Prominently display your EEO statement, and consider expanding it beyond legal minimums to explicitly mention support for individuals regardless of gender identity, sexual orientation, disability, veteran status, etc.
Share Diverse Employee Voices
Embed short employee testimonials or quotes from team members representing various backgrounds, speaking to their positive experiences related to DEI in your organization. This puts a human face to your commitment and can be especially impactful.
What else to take into account
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