Designing inclusive hiring processes and candidate experiences that work for everyone

Designing inclusive hiring processes and candidate experiences that work for everyone

Designing inclusive hiring processes and candidate experiences that work for everyone

News

11/03/2025

Too many hiring processes unintentionally exclude great talent before they even get the chance to apply. From rigid forms and unclear instructions to technology that isn’t accessible, small design flaws create big barriers.

Inclusive hiring isn’t about box-ticking  -  it’s about recognising that talent comes in many forms, and building processes that allow every candidate to have a fair shot at getting hired.

Why Inclusivity Matters in Hiring

Inclusive hiring practices open doors to a wider talent pool, ensuring people of all abilities, backgrounds, and experiences can access opportunities on an equal playing field. When digital user experiences are designed to work for everyone, including neurodivergent candidates and differently abled applicants, companies gain access to the widest range of potential. 

Creating inclusive hiring journeys not only helps companies comply with legal obligations but enhances employer brand, improves candidate experience, and leads to better hiring outcomes.

Inclusive by Design: What Good Looks Like

  • Flexible application processes: Multiple ways to apply, including video, text-based, and simplified forms.

  • Clear communication at every step: Let candidates know what to expect, when, and how.

  • Accessible technology: Screen reader compatibility, easy navigation, and mobile-first design.

  • Options for adjustments: Offer alternative interview formats, quiet spaces, or pre-shared questions for those who need them.

  • Bias monitoring: Use data to spot and mitigate potential biases in screening and selection.

Technology’s Role in Building Inclusive Journeys

Smart hiring technology, like inploi’s candidate experience platform, helps companies design accessible, adaptable processes that meet candidates where they are. Real-time flow analytics highlight where candidates drop off, while flexible content management allows companies to tailor journeys for different needs.

Specifically, inploi’s accessibility widget, powered by Accessibe, automatically adapts the digital environment to the diverse needs of job seekers by offering features like screen reader compatibility, dynamic text adjustments, and customisable color contrasts. By scanning for and remediating barriers in real-time, Accessibe’s AI-driven technology helps inploi maintain compliance with international accessibility standards, such as WCAG, and deliver a seamless, user-friendly experience. This ensures that candidates of all abilities and backgrounds can navigate job postings, application forms, and other key steps with confidence - making the hiring process more inclusive, and efficient for everyone.

For candidates, inclusive technology creates a smoother, more welcoming experience: reducing unnecessary friction and ensuring they can easily navigate applications across devices, assistive technologies, and personal preferences. When candidates feel respected and supported at every step, they’re more likely to engage fully, complete applications, and form positive perceptions of the employer.

Inclusive hiring isn’t just good for candidates, it’s a competitive advantage, helping organisations tap into new talent pools while enhancing their reputation and strengthening their workforce.

Take the first step towards building more inclusive hiring journeys.

Discover how accessible your current candidate experience is, and where you can improve, with a free Access Scan from inploi.

Let’s talk.