Developing an Inclusive Job Description to Ensure a Diverse Applicant Pool

To do this requires attention to many details and a commitment to high-level strategy. At the strategic level, the job description should not only include statements of the organization's mission and values, but also provide helpful insights that nontraditional candidates might need to better understand the role, the culture, and how everything fits together.  Tactically, including a statement on diversity is essential but not sufficient. Watch the syntax and language that you use, particularly when sharing desired qualities and characteristics. Listing DEI-related duties or qualities is prudent, but they should not feel like artificial add-ons and should be no less measurable than other desired duties or qualities. In the end, your job statement is a harbinger of your work environment and culture.  Don’t let that statement itself be the reason that a candidate decides to not apply.