Creating an inclusive job description is essential for attracting a diverse pool of candidates, including those with disabilities. When our Career Talent Consultants support employers with hiring, they offer guidance on how to improve a job description for inclusion. Here are five effective strategies to ensure your job descriptions are welcoming and accessible:

1. Use Clear and Concise Language

When writing job descriptions, clarity is key. Use straightforward language and avoid jargon or complex terms. This approach benefits everyone, especially individuals with cognitive differences or language challenges. By keeping your descriptions brief and to the point, you make it easier for all candidates to understand the role and its requirements.

2. Avoid Acronyms and Explain When Necessary

Acronyms can be confusing and exclusionary, particularly for those new to the field. If you must use an acronym, spell it out the first time it appears. This practice ensures that all readers, including those with disabilities, can fully understand the job description. Clear communication helps prevent misunderstandings and makes your job postings more accessible.

3. Focus on Essential and Flexible Requirements

Differentiate between essential “need to haves” and optional “nice to haves” in your job descriptions. Listing only must-have requirements can create barriers for candidates who may not meet every criterion but are otherwise qualified. By highlighting flexible requirements, you encourage a broader range of applicants, including those with disabilities, to apply.

4. Emphasize Core Responsibilities

Limit the number of responsibilities listed in the job description to around five core duties. Overloading the description with numerous tasks can overwhelm potential candidates. Focusing on the main responsibilities ensures clarity and helps candidates understand what is truly important for the role. This approach also allows you to craft each responsibility carefully, making the job description more inclusive.

5. Highlight Inclusivity and Accessibility

Clearly state your commitment to diversity and inclusion within the job description. Mention that accommodations are available for candidates with disabilities during any stage of the application process. Provide contact information for requesting accommodations. Additionally, emphasize any job benefits that support a diverse workplace, such as flexible work hours, parental leave, and mental health support. These details can make a significant difference for candidates with disabilities, encouraging them to apply. 

Conclusion 

By implementing these strategies, you can create job descriptions that are inclusive and accessible, helping to attract a diverse and talented workforce. Remember, inclusivity starts with the language and tone you use in your job postings. Make sure every candidate feels welcomed and valued from the very first interaction. 

Are you a Disability Confident employer who is hiring talent? A new job board, Untapped Talent, will be launching this October where employers can advertise their postings to job seekers with disabilities. Employers will also have the option to utilize an AI tool to review their job descriptions to get suggestions on how they can make it more inclusive. 

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