Hiring | How can employers avoid bias in job ads?

When it comes to writing job adverts, it is important that the wording appeals to a diverse slate of candidates.

Andrew Hunter, Co-Founder of job search engine Adzuna, told HR Grapevine that a lot of the time, a job advert is the first impression that prospective talent will have of a company. “This is where jobseekers are trying to understand if they will be a good ‘fit’ for the role,” he explained. As such, it is important that employers and recruiters get job adverts right the first time around.

‘Consider the wording in job descriptions'

To eliminate any bias at this stage of the hiring process, Hunter said it's crucial to carefully consider the language used in the job description. “The words you choose will either compel jobseekers to apply – or put them off entirely. Choose gender-neutral language where possible. Consider replacing words such as ‘leadership’ or ‘driven’, which may appeal more to men, with more neutral terms like ‘guidance’ and ‘motivated’. Similarly, stating a salary band or simply revealing salary ‘on application’ is better than stating ‘salary negotiable’ as women are often less comfortable negotiating on pay.”