New research has highlighted a significant concern among younger workers about bias in recruitment, with over a third believing they have faced discrimination during a hiring process.
The results of a recent national survey of over 2,000 UK working adults show that 37% of workers aged 25-34 and 36% of workers aged 16-24 believe they have encountered bias in recruitment.
Among both age groups, specific reasons cited were: age, ethnicity, class, gender, weight, height, and hair colour. Alongside these findings, separate research has revealed that over a third of hiring managers admitted to being biased against Gen Z candidates (those aged 12-27).
So, what is happening here? It could be negative stereotyping but potentially it’s other things. We know, for example, there is an assumption that these age groups are more prone to moving on through quiet quitting.
Ask yourself these questions: Do you think Gen Z and millennials are less likely to be serious and committed to the company and their role within it? Do you hold the common misconception that the younger generation are unable to work under pressure? Do you have a bias which underestimates ability based on age and lack of experience?
This is ageism and it can result in employment discrimination. It needs addressing.
Look at the diversity in your organisation. Is this an indicator that your retention strategy is not working? How are you measuring the conversion rate of your hires? Give Inclusive Recruiting a call today on 0203 397 8333 to find out about our Inclusive Recruitment training.
Continued conversations nurture better understanding of our own biases to embed a more equitable and inclusive recruiting process. We can help you to facilitate these conversations.
