Finding the best person for the job is tough, and in today’s market, a well-written advert is key. But a great ad does more than just attract top talent; it creates a welcoming space for everyone, including disabled candidates. Evenbreak’s Anna Masefield and Mahomed Khatri are here to guide you on how to craft inclusive job ads that stand out and reach a wider pool of skilled individuals.
Clarity is King
Start strong with a clear and concise explanation of the role. Highlight the essential skills and responsibilities. Avoid lengthy lists of “desirable” qualities that can feel overwhelming and discourage applications.
Showcase Your Company Culture
What makes your team great? What perks or programs do you offer? This is your chance to shine! Mention any disability inclusion initiatives you participate in, like the Disability Confident Employer Scheme. This showcases your commitment to a diverse workforce.
Be Upfront About Pay and Benefits
Salary transparency is crucial. List the salary range or a clear pay structure. Don’t forget to mention benefits that can be especially attractive to disabled candidates, like flexible work options, career development opportunities, and healthcare (if applicable).
Focus on Accessibility
Make the application process inclusive. Clearly state that you welcome applications in various formats (video, audio, or email). Offer alternative formats for the application itself if needed.
Offer adjustments
To enable candidates to perform at their best, ask in advert if there is anything they need. For example: “We want all our candidates to shine in the recruitment process. If there is anything you need us to do to enable you to show us your best self, please have an informal chat with [named person] on [phone number] or [email address]”.
Embrace Flexibility
Flexible work arrangements are a major draw for many candidates, including those with disabilities. Highlight your commitment to remote work, hybrid schedules, or compressed workweeks. Be open to discussing reasonable accommodations during the application and interview process.
Write an Interview Process Snapshot
Give candidates a clear picture of what to expect. Briefly outline the interview stages and potential timeframes. Include contact information for anyone with questions or needing application materials in an alternative format.
End with a Strong Call to Action
Don’t leave candidates guessing! Encourage applications with a clear and compelling call to action, such as “Apply Now” or “Learn More About This Opportunity.”
Bonus Tips
- Job Advert Template: If you hire frequently, consider creating a customisable template to save time. Simply adapt it to fit the specific role.
- Ring-fenced Roles: For roles specifically open to disabled candidates, clearly mention it in the title and advert. This can be a great way to showcase your commitment to inclusivity.
- Searchable Titles: Keep job titles concise and relevant to keywords candidates might use in their searches (e.g. “Remote Data Analyst”).
By following these simple tips, you can create inclusive job adverts that attract a diverse and talented pool of applicants. This ultimately benefits your company with a wider range of skills and perspectives, and a more engaged workforce.
Anna Masefield, Account Manager, and Mahomed Khatri, Head of Employer Engagement.
We’d love to hear your thoughts. What other hiring practices promote inclusivity? Share your feedback with Evenbreak – comment below.
If you’d like to learn more about Inclusive hiring, book a recruitment review, or receive tailored training, contact Evenbreak’s Head of Training, Consultancy and Innovation, Meghan Read, by emailing info@evenbreak.co.uk.
Disability Employment & Recruitment 