How Inclusive Job Ads Are the Secret to Building Diverse Teams

Tuesday, 20 May 2025

Diversity, equity, and inclusion are no longer just buzzwords—they're central to building resilient, innovative, and forward-thinking teams. But even companies with the best intentions often fall short in the first step of the hiring process: the job advert.

A compelling new study by The People Lab at Harvard Kennedy School offers evidence-based strategies that could change the way we all approach recruitment—and lead to more inclusive, representative workforces as a result.

The Research: Small Changes, Big Impact

The study found that the way job descriptions are written has a measurable impact on who applies. In particular, avoiding complex jargon and industry-specific terms opens the door to a broader, more diverse talent pool.

“Applicants from underrepresented groups were more likely to engage with job ads that were clear, concise, and free of unnecessary technical language.”

It may seem subtle, but changing a phrase from “stakeholder synergy optimisation” to “building strong relationships across teams” can make all the difference.

If you’re writing job descriptions—or working with an agency that does—you should be asking:

Are we using plain, accessible language?
Are we emphasising skills over specific credentials?
Are we including a commitment to inclusion and flexibility?

At Biscuit Recruitment, we work closely with our clients to craft inclusive job ads that reflect not only the role, but also the values and culture of the company. We believe that diverse hiring starts with inclusive communication.

What This Means for Candidates

For job seekers, especially those from underrepresented backgrounds, job descriptions can often feel like a wall of buzzwords. This research is a reminder that you don’t need to tick every single box to apply. If you bring energy, adaptability, and transferable skills—there’s a place for you.

We encourage candidates to have conversations with us, even if they’re unsure whether they “meet all the criteria.” You might be a better fit than you think.

Building a More Inclusive Future

The People Lab’s research reinforces something we’ve always believed at Biscuit: representation starts with recruitment. And it’s our responsibility—as recruiters, hiring managers, and business leaders—to remove unnecessary barriers from the outset.

If you'd like to ensure your next hire reflects your values and helps drive meaningful change, we’d love to support you in doing it well. Our team at Biscuit Recruitment would be delighted to guide you through the recruitment process and help you find a game-changing addition to your team.

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