Five Easy Ways to Make Your Hiring Process More Inclusive with Generative AI

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Did you know that Generative AI tools can be powerful allies in reducing unconscious bias and creating a more equitable recruitment strategy?

> Before getting started, it’s essential to understand the data privacy risks associated with each tool.

Here are five practical ways to get started:

1. Refine Job Descriptions for Inclusivity

Language matters. Gen AI tools can review and refine your job descriptions to remove gendered terms or jargon that might alienate underrepresented candidates. For instance, instead of "visionary leader to dominate the market," you might opt for "strategic executive to guide sustainable growth."

What to do:

Ask the tool: "Rewrite this job description to be more inclusive and neutral. Remove any gendered or aggressive terms and focus on collaboration and growth."

2. Generate Accessible Application Content

Inclusive hiring starts with an accessible application process. You can use Gen AI to simplify instructions, rewrite complex requirements, and provide examples for clarity. It can also help draft messaging that encourages individuals from diverse backgrounds to apply, ensuring all candidates feel welcomed.

What to do:

Prompt Gen AI: "Simplify these application instructions to make them more accessible for candidates with diverse backgrounds and experiences."

3. Design Scenario-Based Interview Questions

Bias can often creep into interviews, particularly when questions prioritise cultural fit or subjective judgments. Gen AI can help you craft standardised, scenario-based questions that emphasise skills and problem-solving. This ensures a fairer evaluation process by focusing on measurable capabilities.

What to do:

Ask the tool: "Generate five scenario-based interview questions to evaluate a candidate's strategic thinking skills for a senior [insert functional role] in the [insert industry]."

4. Keep Candidates Engaged with Inclusive Communication

Inclusive hiring means treating every candidate with respect and keeping them informed at every stage. Gen AI can help you craft updates that use neutral, inclusive language—avoiding jargon or terms that might alienate. For instance, it can rewrite acknowledgment emails, interview instructions, and rejection messages to ensure clarity, empathy, and accessibility for diverse candidates.

What to do:

Prompt your tool: "Write an update email for candidates still under consideration, using inclusive language that reassures them of a fair and transparent process." Or, "Draft a rejection email that thanks the candidate for their effort, avoids overly formal or negative phrasing, and highlights opportunities for future engagement."

5. Continue to Monitor and Improve

Ask Gen AI for feedback on how job descriptions, interview scripts, or communication materials could be more inclusive. AI won’t replace the need for human oversight, but it can provide a fresh perspective to fine-tune your approach.

What to do:

Prompt the tool: "Review this onboarding presentation and suggest ways to make it more inclusive and appealing to diverse candidates."

Embrace the Change

Inclusive hiring isn’t just about fairness—it’s about recognising the value that diverse perspectives bring to innovation, collaboration, and long-term success. Behind every hiring decision is a person with unique skills and experiences, and creating an environment where everyone feels valued starts with thoughtful, inclusive practices.

The steps above offer straightforward ways to make meaningful progress with Generative AI. But true inclusivity requires more than just tools. It demands leadership, strategy, and a deep understanding of the people at the heart of your organisation. If you’re serious about building an inclusive hiring process, our executive search Principals & Partners are here to help. With years of expertise in connecting organisations with diverse, top-tier talent, we combine strategic insight with a human-centered approach to guide you every step of the way.

Ready to take the next step? Reach out to our team today.