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Many employers are failing to take basic steps to improve equality, diversity and inclusion (EDI) in their hiring processes.
REC commissioned a survey of 167 employers of different sizes across the UK in June 2023 to ask about the EDI measures they take when recruiting. It is the second annual survey of employers on this topic by the REC.
Neil Carberry, REC Chief Executive, said:
“Given the profile of equality, diversity and inclusion issues, it is disappointing to see so little action being taken by firms. While a slim majority of employers have reviewed the wording of their adverts, the overall picture suggests there is a lot still to do. Many employers remain either unconvinced about the importance of changing their approach or are relying on old adverts and approaches that will not serve them well. In doing so they also miss out on the business benefits of a diverse workforce, which are only enhanced by the tightness of our labour market now.
“Pressure to change must come from Boards and executives, as well as government and sector and trade bodies. We urge employers to turn to professional recruitment businesses who can advise them on how to devise and implement a strategy that gives them access to the widest possible talent pool. Inclusive organisations can be more creative, innovative and profitable because they can attract, hire and retain the best talent. Candidates are increasingly looking to work for organisations that have a positive impact on society – and effective diverse hiring policies are a key part of that.”
The REC survey found:
Despite their greater HR resources as compared to SMEs, larger firms perform only marginally better than SMEs. The survey showed that 41% of large employers (250-plus staff) do not state their interest in diverse candidates in their job adverts, 57% do not use name blind submissions and 48% do not use diverse interview panels. All three results are higher than reported by employers in our 2022 survey.
Ends
Notes to editors:
They 167 employers were interviewed by telephone between 1st June 2023 - 26th June 2023. It was the topical question in REC’s most recent JobsOutlook report published in July 2023. For a detailed breakdown of the results contact Hamant Verma at hamant.verma@rec.uk.com
Although the sample size and the proportion of small, medium and large employers for this question is the same as 2022, the base of employers surveyed in 2023 are different.
Click here to view all REC press releases and for more information and interview enquiries, contact the REC Press Office on 020 7009 2157, 020 7009 2129 or pressoffice@rec.uk.com. Outside of regular office hours, please call 07702 568 829.
The REC is the voice of the recruitment industry, speaking up for great recruiters. We drive standards and empower recruitment businesses to build better futures for great candidates and themselves. We are champions of an industry which is fundamental to the strength of the UK economy.
Find out more about the Recruitment & Employment Confederation at www.rec.uk.com.
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