Generic diversity statements in job ads often backfire. Research shows they can actually decrease applications from candidates of color. Instead, use concrete commitments. A craigslist experiment tested this by adding one sentence to a standard diversity blurb: "We've set a goal of hiring at least one woman or racial minority for every white man we hire." The result was striking: applications from women and people of color increased significantly. And, importantly, it didn't deter white men or lower the quality of applicants. This works because specific goals signal real commitment. Today's job seekers are looking for evidence that your dedication to equity goes beyond platitudes. To attract diverse talent, go beyond boilerplate language: 📊 Set and share specific diversity goals 👥 Be transparent about your current workforce demographics 📣 Highlight concrete actions you're taking to promote inclusion By being clear and specific in your job ads, you can create a more diverse and qualified applicant pool. It's a simple change that can make a big difference! #DiversityInHiring #InclusiveRecruitment #MakeWorkFairBook PS - Stay tuned for this paper from Erika Kirgios, Edward Chang, and Ike Silver - currently under review.
Creating Inclusive Job Advertisements
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Summary
Creating inclusive job advertisements means writing job descriptions that welcome diverse candidates and reflect a genuine commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). This approach goes beyond generic statements by using inclusive language, setting specific goals, and highlighting actions that demonstrate your organization's dedication to equity.
- Use specific language: Replace vague diversity statements with clear goals, such as committing to diverse hiring targets, to signal genuine commitment and attract underrepresented candidates.
- Choose inclusive wording: Avoid gendered or biased language by using terms like "their team" instead of "his team" and focusing on skills rather than stereotypes.
- Highlight inclusive practices: Showcase benefits like LGBTQ+ healthcare support or employee resource groups, and describe how roles actively contribute to an equitable workplace.
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🌈 Creating LGBTQ+-Inclusive Job Descriptions: A Guide for Progressive Employers Key elements every inclusive job description needs: 1️⃣ Start Strong with an Inclusive Introduction "[Company] is proud to be an equal opportunity employer celebrating diversity. We actively welcome applications from all backgrounds, including LGBTQ+ candidates." 2️⃣ Use Gender-Neutral Language ❌ "The manager will lead his team" ✅ "The manager will lead their team" 3️⃣ Highlight Inclusive Benefits • Transgender-inclusive healthcare • Domestic partner benefits • LGBTQ+ employee resource groups • Mental health support 4️⃣ Make Your Commitment Clear "We create a workplace where all employees, regardless of sexual orientation, gender identity, or expression, can bring their whole selves to work." 5️⃣ Focus on Skills, Not Stereotypes ❌ "Young, energetic individual" ✅ "Candidate with fresh ideas and innovation" 💡 Pro Tip: Review your job descriptions regularly to ensure they remain inclusive and welcoming to all candidates. What other elements do you include in your inclusive job descriptions? Share in the comments! 👇 #LGBTQ #Inclusion #HR #Recruiting #DiversityAndInclusion #EquitableHiring #WorkplaceCulture
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Pro tip for #hiring managers & #recruiters: Don’t shy away from naming DEI in your job descriptions. If a role contributes to making your workplace more inclusive, equitable, and welcoming—say so. There are so many talented folks actively seeking roles where they can make a difference, even if “DEI” isn’t in the job title. Help them find you. Here are a few examples of how to make that connection clear: 📊 HR Business Partner Supports DEI and employee engagement by analyzing survey data, identifying inequities in policy or experience, and advising leaders on inclusive practices. 📖 Learning & Development Specialist Drives equity by embedding inclusive leadership and bias mitigation content into training programs and creating access to professional development across all levels. 🗣️ Marketing Manager Ensures campaigns reflect diverse voices, builds inclusive messaging that resonates across audiences, and partners with employee resource groups on community-facing initiatives. ✨ When candidates see themselves reflected in your values and responsibilities, diversity becomes a natural outcome—not an afterthought. Clarity attracts talent. Inclusion starts with your job post. #DEICareerBoard is a great place to promote your jobs to #jobseekers looking to land their next opportunity to make an impact on DEI. #DEI #InclusiveHiring #TalentAcquisition #WorkplaceEquity #HiringTips