Here at Apache Associates we see how diversity can improve IT teams. Diverse groups tend to innovate, solve problems faster and build products that reflect their diverse userbase. Achieving real diversity in an IT team can be challenging so we are sharing practical, achievable steps for employers and hiring managers who want to build more diverse IT teams and retain them.
1. Have A Clear Business Case
Before you make any changes in how you hire, work out why diversity matters to your organisation is it:
· Better problem solving - different backgrounds bring new perspectives
· Stronger products - diverse teams understand varied customer needs
· Improved retention - inclusive cultures reduce staff turnover
· Greater employer brand - candidates look for inclusive employers
Having a clear framework in place helps you with stakeholder relationships and keeps a focus when the recruitment market gets tough.
2. Review & Refine Job Descriptions
Of course the first step in the process is, the job advert. Here are some helpful tips:
· Avoid jargon or non inclusive language
· Keep criteria essential
· Long lists may disproportionately discourage applications from underrepresented groups
· Highlight flexibility to open up your talent pool
At Apache Associates we regularly support our clients by reviewing role profiles and suggesting changes that help attract a broader, stronger candidate shortlist.
3. Widen Your Sourcing Channels
If you always look for new staff in the same places it is likely that you will see the same types of candidates.
Instead try sharing job roles in specialist communities and networks and targeted job boards. Apprenticeships and graduate schemes with universities and colleges that have diverse student bodies are a good way to find great tech talent. Our team use a combination of traditional and specialist channels to help clients reach the talent they wouldn’t normally be able to access.
4. Reduce Bias In The Hiring Process
Every hiring process contains bias but the key is to recognise and minimise it. Here are some practical steps:
· Ask candidates the same questions tied to skills & behaviours
· Use practical tasks or technical exercises
· Have diverse interview panels with different backgrounds & perspectives
· Define criteria in advance & use a simple scoring method
We help clients design a process that is strong and time efficient, as well as being fair and consistent.
5. Focus On Inclusion - Not Just Representation
Hiring a diverse team is about creating an environment where everyone can succeed. Be sure to provide inclusive leadership training for managers and mentoring or coaching programmes, especially for those from underrepresented groups.
Regularly review your policies and potential barriers that could impact staff. By creating a culture where different viewpoints are actively welcomed, not merely tolerated you will ensure staff feel safe and valued. Ultimately, a team that feels valued and included will be more engaged, more productive and more likely to stay.
6. Work With A Tech Recruitment Specialist
Building a diverse IT team in a competitive market is easier when you are not doing it alone. A specialist IT recruitment partner can advise on role design and salary benchmarking, give access to wider and more diverse candidate networks, support with inclusive selection and be an advisor during the hiring process.
Here at Apache Associates we work closely with employers and hiring managers across the UK to build high performing, diverse tech teams. If you’d like to discuss how to make your next hiring process more inclusive and effective, we would be happy to help, get in touch now.