We all want to feel accepted at work, and an inclusive culture makes that possible. On top of that, diverse workplaces are often more innovative and more profitable.
But how do you know if a potential employer is truly inclusive? When you know what to look for, a little research can go a long way.
Often unconscious bias, or even outright preferences, show up in the language of job descriptions. Compare the job description you’re interested in with similar ones from other companies, especially ones known for being inclusive.
Now take a peek at your potential employer’s career site. Many employers devote a portion of their careers section to diversity and inclusion (D&I). Check whether the company shares its current diversity numbers and goals. Also look for evidence of D&I awards or mentions of employee resource groups.
If the employer doesn’t have a webpage dedicated to D&I, take a look at its leadership team and board members. Do either of those two groups show diversity? Also keep an eye out for efforts to create an inclusive candidate experience, like whether they offer a path for disabled job candidates to seek necessary accommodation during the interview process.
Once you have a baseline idea of where your potential employer stands when it comes to D&I, consider which of the following questions can help you dig deeper during the interview.
Don’t stop with just these questions. Keep the conversation going throughout the interview process and continue it when you land the job. And once you’re satisfied with the information you’ve gathered, join the effort to help create a more inclusive work environment.