Yesterday we explored how job descriptions and a reluctance to accept job gaps negatively influence female workers and can result in gender bias. Today we’ll look at how inflexible interview schedules can do the same thing. Most organizations strive to be gender-blind when hiring. The focus is on finding the best talent, regardless of sex. However, even the best intentions can go awry, leading to job search gender bias.
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Inflexible Interview Schedules
Employers have known for a long time that flexible work options go a long way in attracting and retaining female employees. The Gallup poll mentioned in yesterday’s Advisor found that 60% of women value work/life balance perks in a new job.
The problem is that the same flexibility is not incorporated into the interview process. Candidates need to find time to go through multiple rounds of interviews, which can be particularly difficult for parents. Many mothers need to weigh the chances of getting the job versus the costs of childcare. And, if a hiring process is overly time-consuming, they are forced out of the running.
The easy solution to this job search gender bias is prescheduled video interviews. Video interview platforms make it easy for hiring managers and candidates to schedule real-time interviews. And, if you want to offer even more flexibility, allow applicants to complete prerecorded video responses. That way, they can answer your questions whenever it’s convenient regardless of your schedule.
Whether it’s intentional or not, job search gender bias does exist. It creates barriers that make it difficult to find, apply for, and receive an offer for a job. But, by understanding how the hiring process can be prejudiced against women, you can strive to make things more equal.
What are some other ways to avoid job search gender bias? Share in the comments below!
Josh Tolan is the CEO of Spark Hire, a video interview solution used by more than 4,000 companies across the globe. Connect with Spark Hire on Facebook and Twitter.