Inclusive Hiring Starts with the Right Job Description

Hiring staff with an understanding of accessibility can help government agencies and private institutions build capacity to produce accessible products, services, and supports.

Many employers are actively seeking such talent to develop internal and external tools and processes that are accessible to all—placing inclusivity front and center in the workplace. 

Job descriptions are the first entry point into the hiring process. With high demand for accessibility talent, it’s essential to disseminate job descriptions that not just communicate responsibilities and qualifications but also an employer’s commitment to meet the accessibility needs of all employees. 

To help make writing a job description a bit easier, here are tips you can use to support your process for hiring accessibility talent. 

Tips for Building Job Descriptions: 

1. Get Familiar with Accessible eRecruiting: Check out TalentWorks, an online resource that helps employers and HR professionals make their eRecruiting technologies accessible to all job seekers—including those with disabilities.
2. Show Your Commitment: Be clear about your commitment to creating an inclusive workplace, one where all employees—including employees with disabilities—have what they need to be successful in their jobs. Weave in language on accessibility, inclusion, and flexibility throughout the description.
3. Build Trust: Include details that show your agency is placing accessibility as a top priority. Discuss the accommodations and flexibility you offer to employees. If teleworking is an option, mention it. This will help all job seekers recognize the value your agency places on inclusion and employee success.
4. Be Specific: Include requirements, such as knowledge of Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG), a background in creating accessible digital communication and inclusive experiences, and understanding of ICT accessibility standards and the Americans with Disabilities Act.
5. Clarify the Accessibility of the Interview Process: Share information with candidates on how the interview process will be made accessible. Mention that employers will work with candidates to provide accommodations, as needed. 
6. Check Out this Toolkit: For sample language for specific roles influencing accessibility in digital products, check out this Accessibility Skills Hiring Toolkit . It includes language for positions including Procurement Officers, Project Manager, Developers, Content Producers, and more.

Stay healthy! 

 Devin Boyle is a GovLoop Featured Contributor. She is Senior Consultant at Wheelhouse Group supporting the Partnership on Employment & Accessible Technology (PEAT) as Emerging Technology Lead and acting as Adviser to XR Access. An experienced communicator and avid writer, she has authored articles for national, local, and trade publications to advocate for societal change and social inclusion for vulnerable populations. She believes in the benefits of preparation before execution and the personal and professional power of Mindful Self-Compassion practice. She lives with her partner, dog, and one-eyed cat in Arlington, VA. You can follow her on Twitter and read her posts here.