When does attempting to recruit a diverse group of applicants cross the line and become illegal discrimination?
In a recent opinion letter, the EEOC tried to clear up some confusion over the wording of help wanted ads.
The question: Does including a phrase such as “women and minorities encouraged to apply” break the law?
The answer: No, according to the EEOC.
Encouraging certain groups to apply doesn’t mean you’re biased against or in favor of any type of person.
However, the letter points out that some companies make the mistake of using similar — but discriminatory — phrasing. For example: “We are seeking women … ”
“Seeking” implies a preference for that group. Therefore, a court would likely consider it to be illegal bias.
Read the entire Opinion Letter here.
