How can you make job descriptions more inclusive?

There’s many tools out there that can help you write better, faster, more inclusive. But a picture says more then a thousand words. And a video. We need a new shift from textual pages to interactive and visually oriented pages. Don’t tell that you’re inclusive, show it. And make it specific to that workspace/role. You career site ain’t enough, as it doesn’t speak to the person at that point for that role. I want to see who my colleagues are, who my direct leaders are. Show me the direct environment. This will tell someone a lot more about how inclusive/diverse you are. We have a long way to go since the entire system is based on text (ATS / Job board). But things are changing now career site are becoming the central place.

The fact this is a key point in 2023 is just mind blowing, what is worse is how many companies still fail and the first hurdle. The perfect candidate should be based on experience, skills, personality and culture.

If the JD is more then 2 pages then you need to really sit down and go over your expectations. On average candidate spend 49.2 – 76.7 seconds reading your advert. You should be catching their attention in under a minute. Most candidates I've worked with get put off by either lengthy adverts or responsibilities/requirements being so in depth they don't feel they have the specifics needed when in fact, they do.

NEVER use words that imply a certain age, race, ethnicity, disability, or sexual orientation, such as young, old, native, foreign, normal, or fit. Be positive, exciting, innovative and best of all be optimistic. If you show this in an advert then a candidate expects to see this in an interview and this will bring out the best in what they have to offer and 9/10 will tick more boxes for what you as a company are looking for.

I hear this so much when speaking to candidates, Covid19 has shown the world we don't need to be in an office 5 days a week. If you can't be flexible for them or be inclusive of their needs, you won't find the best person for your company. You have to give, to get. Likewise you don't need someone with a Masters or PHD who has the experience and motivation to do what is required. Not everyone went to University and not everyone has the education due to one reason or another but this doesn't mean they wouldn't be able to hit the ground running given the chance.

Use plain, understandable language, mirroring the simplicity we adopt for customer websites. Steer clear of insider jargon. Job descriptions should clearly state expectations, salary, benefits, and your company's equality policy. Additionally, provide insight into the company culture and work environment. It's essential that potential candidates not only grasp the role but also know the support, accommodations, and values they'll encounter when joining your team.