Eliminating Bias in Job Descriptions with ChatGPT
Bias in job descriptions refers to the use of language or content that may favor or exclude certain groups of people based on their gender, race, age, religion, or other characteristics. This can result in discrimination in the recruitment and hiring process, as biased language or requirements may discourage qualified candidates from applying or lead to the hiring of less qualified candidates.
Examples of bias in job descriptions include using gender-specific language or job titles, emphasizing stereotypically masculine or feminine traits or activities, and specifying requirements that are not necessary for the job or may disproportionately exclude certain groups. Bias in job descriptions can be addressed by using gender-neutral language, focusing on skills and qualifications, and avoiding stereotypes or unnecessary requirements.
Why ChatGPT?
ChatGPT is a good tool for validating job descriptions against bias for several reasons. As a large language model trained by OpenAI, ChatGPT has been trained on a massive corpus of text data and has a deep understanding of language and its nuances. This means that it can easily identify language or content in a job description that may be biased or discriminatory. Additionally, ChatGPT is not subject to the same biases that humans may have, such as unconscious biases that may influence the way that we write or interpret language. ChatGPT can help to ensure that job descriptions are inclusive, unbiased, and free from language that may discourage qualified candidates from applying. It can also help to ensure that job descriptions comply with equal employment opportunity regulations and express a commitment to diversity and inclusion in the workplace.
Prompt
I want to make job descriptions unbiased and eliminate workplace gender discrimination.
Use the following rules:
- Use gender-neutral language: Avoid using gender-specific pronouns (he, she) and job titles (salesman, saleswoman). Instead, opt for inclusive terms such as “they” and “salesperson.”
- Focus on skills and qualifications: When writing job descriptions, emphasize the skills, qualifications, and experience required for the role, rather than making assumptions about which gender might be more suitable.
- Remove gender-coded words: Avoid using adjectives that may be associated with a specific gender, such as “aggressive” or “nurturing.” Use neutral descriptors, like “results-driven” or “collaborative.”
- Closely consider the education requirements listed in the job posting.
- Express a commitment to equality and diversity.
Identify bias in job description in form “issue” and “how to fix”.
Example job description
Job title: Salesman
Job description: Ready to rise to the top? Do you love customer service? Do you earn top commissions or tips in your day to day job?
This is an awesome opportunity! All of our entry-level sales consultants earned $52,000+ their first year.
Never tried Auto Sales before? We will pay you while we train you in your new CAREER!
Company is accepting resumes and applications for entry level or experienced Vehicle Sales Consultants. We will pair you with an experienced sales mentor and management team to provide you PAID hands-on training!
If you have any of the following work experience, vehicle sales could be a great fit for you and get you home at decent hours: bartending, hospitality, realtor, real estate, Apartment leasing agent, restaurant (hostess, wait staff, servers), telemarketing, call centers, any retail sales, cellular companies, mall, department stores, etc.
Responsibilities and Duties:
Continually meet and greet customers in person, via phone, email, text, and all facets of social media. Pair the requests and vehicle need of the customer with the right vehicle!
What more does it offer you?
EARN WHILE YOU LEARN
Exceptional Commission Pay Plan in effect exceeding $10,000.00 monthly
Training will be provided
Vacation/holiday pay
Promotion from with-in
Positive team-oriented working environment
Health/Dental/Vision/Life Ins/401k Retirement with match
Huge advertising budget and vehicle inventory
“Hands” on owners, family atmosphere, and staff ready to welcome and help you!
Work Hours: Mon — Sat (alternate day off during the week) No Sundays!
A very motivated sales employee can earn up to 6 figures a year!
We are a great company to work for. Don’t buy into a vehicle sales stereotype. We have excellent reputation, employees, and owners. This is truly a work environment you can excel in and be treated with respect.
ChatGPT analysis
Issue: The job title “Salesman” is gender-specific and excludes individuals who do not identify as male.
How to fix: Change the job title to “Sales Consultant” or “Salesperson” to make it more inclusive and gender-neutral.
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Issue: The job description uses language that may be associated with a specific gender, such as “rise to the top” and “earn top commissions or tips.”
How to fix: Remove gender-coded language and replace it with neutral language, such as “reach your potential” and “earn competitive compensation.”
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Issue: The job description lists work experiences that may be more commonly associated with one gender, such as “hostess” and “wait staff.”
How to fix: Avoid listing specific job titles or industries and instead focus on the necessary skills and qualifications for the role.
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Issue: The job description emphasizes the potential to earn a high salary, which may be more attractive to male candidates.
How to fix: Instead of focusing on earning potential, emphasize the skills and qualifications necessary to excel in the role and express a commitment to equal pay and opportunities for all employees.
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Issue: The job description does not express a commitment to equality and diversity.
How to fix: Add a statement to the job description expressing a commitment to equal employment opportunities and a diverse and inclusive workplace. This can help attract a wider pool of qualified candidates.
Conclusions
Eliminating bias in job descriptions is an essential step towards creating a diverse and inclusive workplace. Job descriptions that are biased or discriminatory can discourage qualified candidates from applying, which can lead to a less diverse and less qualified pool of applicants. This can have negative impacts on the organization’s productivity, innovation, and overall success.
Fortunately, ChatGPT is an excellent tool for checking and fixing job descriptions to eliminate bias. With its deep understanding of language and its ability to identify biased language and content, ChatGPT can help ensure that job descriptions are inclusive, unbiased, and free from language that may discourage qualified candidates from applying.
