Are you looking to hire and are having trouble finding talent? America is facing a talent crisis. 29% of recruiters say that a lack of applicants is to blame. 

 

However, implicit bias makes the problem worse. When diverse workers don't feel wanted by employers, they don't bother to apply. Tweak your recruitment efforts to make job postings appealing and welcoming to all. 

 

Check out our infographic (located in section 3 below) to learn some tips on how to make your job posts incorporate the principles inclusive hiring You can also download the image here.

 

Understanding Diversity Hiring in Today's Marketplace

Let's face it. The talent landscape has changed dramatically. 

 

Companies embracing diversity hiring are not just doing what's right; they're gaining a significant competitive advantage. But what exactly is diversity in hiring? 

 

At its core, diversity hiring means creating a recruitment process that provides equal opportunity to all candidates regardless of their background, identity, or personal characteristics.

 

Diversity in hiring isn't just about meeting quotas or checking boxes. It's about building teams that bring different perspectives, experiences, and problem-solving approaches to your organization. When you implement inclusive hiring practices, you're expanding your talent pool and setting your company up for greater innovation and adaptability.

 

Studies consistently show that organizations practicing diversity in hiring outperform their competitors by up to 35% in profitability. This shouldn't be surprising. Diverse teams simply make better decisions because they consider more angles and possibilities than homogeneous groups.

 

The Business Case for Inclusive Hiring Practices

When implemented strategically, inclusive hiring practices deliver measurable business outcomes. Organizations with high diversity in hiring report 19% higher innovation revenue than their less diverse competitors. 

 

Diversity hiring isn't just about optics, though. It's also about building teams that reflect your customer base and bring varied perspectives to problem-solving. 

 

Companies with effective diversity in hiring initiatives also experience 50% lower turnover rates,  which saves substantially on recruitment and training costs. By prioritizing inclusive hiring practices, you're making a smart business decision that improves your bottom line while creating a workplace where everyone thrives.


Key Areas for Inclusive Hiring Practices to Focus On

As illustrated in our infographic below, there are several key areas to focus on when implementing inclusive hiring practices. Each represents an opportunity to make your recruitment process more welcoming to qualified candidates from all backgrounds.

 

Gender Considerations

Words matter in job descriptions. When crafting postings, be mindful that certain terms can inadvertently signal a male-dominated environment. 
 
Inclusive hiring requires using gender-neutral language that appeals to all qualified candidates. Instead of "dominant" or "competitive," consider terms like "collaborative" and "team-oriented."
 
Another fascinating insight: men typically apply for jobs when they meet only 50% of qualifications, while women often feel they need to meet all requirements. By listing only truly necessary qualifications, your diversity in hiring efforts will attract a broader candidate pool.
 

Sexual Orientation & Identity

Inclusive hiring practices must address the fact that 20% of LGBTQ+ Americans report discrimination during job applications. Implementing gender-neutral language in all communications is essential for creating a welcoming application process. 
 
Terms like "they" instead of "he/she" and "spouse" rather than "husband/wife" signal your commitment to diversity in hiring.
 

Disability & Neurodivergence

Supporting mental health in the workplace starts during recruitment. Inclusive hiring recognizes that neurodivergent candidates may bring exceptional skills and perspectives. 
 
Approximately 66% of consumers prefer companies that employ people with disabilities. Meanwhile, 78% favor businesses that are clearly accessible.
 
For truly inclusive hiring practices, consider how your physical workspace accommodates various needs. Avoid unnecessary personality tests that weren't designed with neurodivergence in mind.
 

Age Diversity

Diversity hiring must also consider age representation. Older workers often face implicit bias when terms like "tech native," "high energy," or "cultural fit" appear in job descriptions. 
 
Instead, focus DEI hiring on specific skills: "multitasker with effective communication" rather than "high energy," for example.
 

Implementing Effective Diversity in Hiring Strategies

Successfully implementing diversity in hiring requires commitment throughout your organization. 
 
Start by reviewing all recruitment materials through an inclusive lens. Train hiring managers to recognize their unconscious biases and establish clear metrics to track progress.
 
Supercharging recruiting efforts through inclusive hiring practices means casting a wider net. Consider partnering with diverse professional organizations and educational institutions. 
 
Additionally, support veterans in the workforce by translating military experience into civilian terms. These DEI hiring practices will demonstrate your company's dedication to recognizing valuable skills from all backgrounds.
 

Building a Future Where Everyone Belongs

In spite of the current political climate in the US, the importance of DEI cannot be overstated in today's business environment. Organizations that excel at diversity in hiring and implement comprehensive inclusive hiring practices avoid talent shortages while creating more innovative, adaptable, and successful workplaces.
 
Our commitment to DEI drives everything we do. Founded in 1956, we're a nationally ranked staffing and workforce solutions company dedicated to transforming lives. 
 
By connecting job seekers with opportunities that fit their skills, schedules, and goals, we help candidates find work and employers find top talent. From contingent labor and direct hire solutions to vendor-on-premise services and managed workforce programs, our goal is to deliver solutions that empower businesses and individuals to thrive.