Building a Diverse Hiring Process

Create an inclusive hiring process that attracts diverse candidates and reduces bias.

8 min read

1Audit Your Job Descriptions

Use tools to check for biased language. Avoid gendered words like "ninja" or "rockstar". Focus on skills and outcomes rather than years of experience or specific credentials.

2Expand Your Sourcing

Post on diverse job boards and partner with organizations that support underrepresented groups. Attend events and build relationships in diverse professional communities.

3Structure Your Interviews

Unstructured interviews are highly susceptible to bias. Use consistent questions, scoring rubrics, and diverse interview panels for every candidate.

4Remove Bias from Resume Review

Consider blind resume review that removes names, photos, and identifying information. Focus on skills and achievements rather than school names or company prestige.

5Track Your Metrics

Measure diversity at each stage of your funnel. Identify where candidates from underrepresented groups drop off and address those specific bottlenecks.

Key Tips

  • Set specific, measurable diversity goals
  • Train all interviewers on unconscious bias
  • Require diverse slates for all open positions
  • Build an inclusive culture to retain diverse talent

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it legal to set diversity targets?

Goals are legal; quotas that exclude qualified candidates are not. Focus on expanding the pipeline.

How do I attract diverse candidates?

Showcase your commitment to inclusion, use diverse imagery, and highlight employee resource groups.