Unpacking the Quiet Bias in Everyday Workplace Language

bias dei inclusion inclusive language job description terminology unconscious bias websites Jun 24, 2025
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Have you ever considered how your job ads might unintentionally discourage the very people you want to attract?

We were recently supporting a client who asked us to take a fresh look at their recruitment materials. They were keen to be more inclusive but weren’t sure where they might be going wrong. What we found were subtle but significant issues in the language used.

Phrases like “strong-willed,” “powerhouse,” and “robust thinker” appeared throughout their job descriptions. These terms, while seemingly motivational, are examples of male-coded language that can subconsciously deter women and others who don’t identify with that way of being described.

We also noticed jargon-heavy phrasing, another common pitfall. The assumption that “everyone will understand” often backfires. Instead of attracting top talent, complex language can make candidates feel like outsiders: “This place isn’t for people like me.” This can go against all the positive work being done to attract diverse staff.

When we pointed this out, it all clicked. “How did we miss that?” they asked. But this is incredibly common. When you're immersed in your organisation’s way of speaking, it’s easy to miss how it might land with others. That’s where we come in with a clear, compassionate eye.

 

Why is this important?

Exclusion doesn’t always come in the form of overt discrimination. Sometimes, it’s a few well-intended words that quietly communicate: you don’t belong here. Remember we all have unconscious biases. These feed into all our communications if we are not mindful.

 

How Unpacking DEI helps

While our Unpacking DEI online course doesn’t focus solely on recruitment, it lays the groundwork for more inclusive thinking across the board, language, culture, bias, and belonging. It encourages a shift in mindset: from assumptions to awareness, from habit to intention. And that’s the first step in getting recruitment (and so much more) right.

We are really proud of what has been created, as the course is a distillation of all the DEI consultation work completed over the years. Why not take a sneak peek? It will be officially available from Monday 30th June.

 

Talking about racism can seem difficult and uncomfortable. This CPD accredited course provides a foundational education on racism to help to increase racial literacy which includes building confidence to speak about and deal with issues concerning race. It provides a language through which meaningful conversation can take place (particularly in the workplace).

Time to Talk about Race Online Course

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