More organisations asking candidates for diversity data

Nearly half of companies are now asking candidates for diversity data to help progress their diversity, equity and inclusion (DE&I) initiatives and create a more inclusive work environment.

Large businesses (53%) and public sector employers (69%) were found to be more likely to ask for this information compared to SMEs and private sector organisations.

According to the Hays research, the majority (80%) of applicants are happy to share this information with a potential employer. Those aged between 18 and 24 are more likely to provide the data (92%) compared to 30-39-year-olds (77%).

The type of information they are most comfortable sharing includes:

• Gender or gender identity (cited by 67%)
• Ethnicity/nationality (62%)
• Age (61%)

However, the following data came lower on the list:

• Socio-economic background (23%)
• Mental health status (32%)
• Dependent status, as in if they’re a parent or carer (33%)
• Sexual orientation (39%)

Dan Robertson, MD of FAIRER Consulting, a Hays company, said, “Collecting diversity data is the first step towards understanding the make up of your workforce – and identifying where there might be gaps.

“Although there’s clear willingness from professionals to share some aspects of their personal diversity data, less than half of employers are actually asking for this during the hiring process. If you’re aiming for more equal representation in specific areas of your business, data collection at point of hire can help establish whether you’re building a talent pipeline with the diversity required to achieve your goals.

“Our research also shows that there’s still some way to go for employers to ensure applicants feel comfortable that their data will be used in the right way – clearly explaining the purpose of data collection. Demonstrating the positive action taken off the back of any data collection, to both your current and prospective workforce, and the improvements that have occurred as a result, is crucial to embedding psychological safety and boosting confidence levels.”

To find out more about contracting please contact Lauren on 01206 591 000 or email lauren.monks@contractorumbrella.com.