Diversity is more than just a buzzword, it’s a business imperative. Research shows that diverse teams foster creativity, innovation, and better decision-making. But achieving diversity, especially in traditionally male-dominated industries, can be a challenge.
But, with some steps, you can improve diversity in your hiring process and build stronger, more inclusive teams.
The first step is to understand and address unconscious bias. As a hiring manager, it’s critical to assess your own biases that may be unintentionally affecting your decisions. This doesn’t mean just paying lip service to the concept, it means actively educating yourself on the subject and reflecting on how your approach to hiring may be shaped by unconscious biases. A diverse team won’t just walk through the door, you have to invite them in by challenging your own assumptions.
One common mistake is using aggressive, “type-A” language in job descriptions, which can unintentionally alienate more introverted candidates, particularly women. Words like “dynamic,” “fast-paced,” or “competitive” may discourage talented candidates from applying. By softening the tone of your job specs to create a more welcoming environment, you can attract a wider pool of candidates. A simple change in wording can lead to a much more diverse set of applicants.
Diversity already exists within your organization. Tap into this valuable resource by asking your diverse employees to refer candidates from their networks. Often, diverse people know other diverse individuals. Encourage your employees to spread the word within their communities or forums. This strategy not only helps widen your applicant pool but also strengthens your employees’ sense of belonging and involvement in the company's diversity efforts.
Finally, diversity doesn’t end with the hiring process, it’s about creating an environment where diverse employees feel valued and can thrive. If your company culture is dominated by a particular personality type or gender, it may not be appealing to all candidates. Building a culture that celebrates different perspectives and backgrounds is essential for retaining diverse talent.
This blog was inspired by a video from Productivity Ace.
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