Facebook introducing 'Rooney Rule' to increase diversity when hiring

Facebook is to trial the National Football League’s (NFL) ‘Rooney Rule’ in an effort to embrace diversity.

The Rooney Rule, named after Pittsburgh Steelers owner Dan Rooney, was introduced in the NFL in 2003. It requires recruiters to interview a minimum of one black or ethnic minority candidate for any head coach or senior football vacancies.

Following its introduction, the number of black coaches rose 6% in three years to 22%.

When the Rooney Rule is applied to Facebook, it is hoped that the presence of black, Hispanic, or other candidates will increase. According to their latest diversity report (published June 2014), Facebook have a very white or Asian, male workforce.