Ways to Improve Your Job Descriptions to Increase Diversity and Inclusion

The job description is one of the most important aspects of the hiring process. It helps attract potential candidates and sets expectations for the day-to-day duties of the position. While job descriptions are often overlooked, they can play a critical role in increasing diversity and inclusion in the workplace. In this article, we will explore ways to improve your job descriptions to attract a more diverse pool of candidates.

1. Avoid gendered language
   Gendered language is phrases that use “he/him” and “she/her” pronouns. Using gender-neutral language in your job description is a simple way to make it more inclusive. Rather than using “salesman” or “waitress,” use “sales representative” or “server.” Doing so makes your job description more neutral and welcoming to applicants of different gender identities.

2. Use inclusive language
   Inclusive language means avoiding language that can be exclusionary or offensive to certain groups of people. This includes avoiding terms like “handicapped,” “lame,” or “crazy” and phrasing job requirements in a way that does not include biased assumptions or stereotypes. For example, instead of requiring a “strong” or “competitive” candidate, you could use “resilient” or “results-oriented.”

3. Consider requirements for experience, skills, and education
   When writing job descriptions, it can be tempting to simply list a set of skills or requirements that you think are necessary for the position. However, this can often lead to a lack of diversity among applicants. Instead of listing very specific and narrow requirements for education, experience, and technical skills, consider what skills and experiences can be learned on the job. This allows for a more diverse pool of applicants and can help eliminate unconscious bias in the hiring process.

4. Emphasize diversity and inclusivity
   When crafting job descriptions, include language that emphasizes diversity and inclusivity. For example, you could include phrases such as “committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace” or “we value diversity and are an equal opportunity employer.” Including this type of language signals to applicants that your organization is committed to diversity and inclusion, which can help attract a wider range of candidates.

5. Avoid using unnecessary jargon
   Using industry-specific jargon can make job descriptions difficult to understand, especially for individuals who are new to the field. Using plain and straightforward language in your job description can attract a wider range of qualified candidates. If industry-specific language is necessary, be sure to include a brief explanation of any terms that might not be familiar to everyone.

6. Utilize diverse recruiting channels
   Consider recruiting on channels that reach a diverse audience. For example, you might consider posting your job description on job boards that cater to underrepresented groups such as veterans, women, or minorities. Additionally, consider reaching out to community organizations that serve diverse populations to share your job description.

7. Be transparent about compensation and benefits
   Transparency about compensation and benefits is one of the keys to attracting diverse and qualified candidates. Be clear about the salary range, benefits, and any other pertinent information that might affect an applicant’s decision to apply. This information can help ensure that applicants are fairly compensated for their work, which can attract and retain a more diverse workforce.

8. Highlight the company’s diversity and inclusion initiatives
   If your company is known for its efforts to promote and foster diversity and inclusion, be sure to highlight those initiatives in your job description. This not only demonstrates a commitment to diversity and inclusion but also sends a message to job seekers that your company values those efforts. Highlighting such initiatives can help attract a more diverse pool of candidates.

In conclusion, job descriptions are critical in attracting and retaining diverse candidates. By paying attention to the language and requirements in your job descriptions, using inclusive language, and highlighting diversity and inclusion initiatives, your organization can attract qualified and diverse candidates that will help your organization to thrive.