We believe that recruitment is not simply about filling roles, it’s about shaping the future of work into something we can be proud of. An inclusive approach to hiring doesn’t just tick boxes or comply with legislation; it actively creates stronger, more dynamic teams, brings fresh perspectives into the workplace, and reflects the diverse world we live in. As recruiters who work at the intersection of people and business, we see first-hand how inclusive hiring benefits everyone, including employers, candidates, and communities alike.
Inclusive hiring is, at its core, about equity; it’s about ensuring that every candidate has a fair and accessible route into meaningful employment, regardless of their background, identity, or circumstances. When businesses commit to inclusive practices, they widen their talent pool, boost innovation, and increase retention rates. According to McKinsey’s 2020 report on diversity and inclusion, companies in the top quartile for gender diversity on executive teams were 25% more likely to have above-average profitability. Meanwhile, organisations with ethnic and cultural diversity at leadership level outperformed their peers by 36% in profitability, according to a McKinsey report. These statistics are more than just numbers; they are proof that businesses thrive when they reflect the societies they serve.
At Abacus, our commitment to building better teams starts with recognising the value of difference. We don’t believe in a one-size-fits-all approach, instead, we take the time to understand the unique cultures and objectives of the businesses we support, ensuring that our recruitment strategies attract a wide range of candidates and remove unnecessary barriers to entry. From job advert wording to interview accessibility, we work closely with our clients to create processes that are genuinely inclusive, not just per-formatively so.
Supporting diverse talent is not a single step, it’s an ongoing journey through which we support our candidates during every stage of the recruitment process, from CV advice and interview preparation to on-the-job feedback and career progression. For underrepresented candidates, especially those facing social, cultural or economic barriers, we provide tailored guidance and advocacy. We know that confidence, not just competence, can impact a candidate’s journey, which is why we strive to empower every individual we work with, whether they are entering the workforce for the first time or seeking new opportunities after a career break.
Inclusive recruitment, in practice, is often about the small decisions that collectively have a big impact. We challenge unconscious bias by anonymising applications where appropriate, offering clients structured interview frameworks, and encouraging hiring decisions based on evidence and ability, not assumption. We consult on job design and flexibility, helping clients to open up roles to candidates who might otherwise be excluded. And we track and reflect on our own placement data to ensure we’re living up to our promises and improving year on year.
June marks Pride Month, and while it’s a time for celebration, it’s also a reminder of the work still to be done. Stonewall’s 2024 Workplace Report found that 39% of LGBTQ+ employees have hidden their identity at work due to fear of discrimination. This is why inclusion cannot be limited to a marketing campaign or calendar moment, it must be embedded into everyday practice, which is precisely why we continue to invest in training, policies, and partnerships that promote real inclusion, not just visibility.
Our clients trust us not only to source skilled candidates, but to help them build sustainable, representative, and resilient teams. Inclusive hiring isn't just good for business, it’s good for people, as it makes organisations more human, more creative, and more adaptable to change.
If you’re ready to build a workforce that reflects your values and your vision, we’re here to help. Partner with Abacus to access a diverse pipeline of talent and take the next step towards a more inclusive future.