Inclusive Recruitment Trends in 2025: 5 Key Drivers of Change

Who is Recite Me?

Recite Me is a trusted partner of Eploy and is a leading provider of website accessibility software. Together, Recite Me and Eploy have been working together for several years to make the candidate experience more inclusive.

Through the partnership, Eploy customers can empower their candidates to personalise the look and feel of career websites according to their individual needs, using the Recite Me Assistive Toolbar. This tool offers a variety of accessibility and language support options, ensuring that a broader range of candidates can engage with job postings and applications effectively.

Introduction

As we step into 2025, the recruitment world is evolving rapidly, shaped by technological innovation, shifting workplace expectations, and new accessibility regulations. For organisations, this means adapting to these changes not just to stay competitive but to create opportunities for diverse and inclusive teams that thrive.

In this blog, we’ll explore five key drivers reshaping the recruitment landscape this year. From the implications of the European Accessibility Act (EAA) to the transformative role of AI and the growing focus on digital accessibility, we’ll provide actionable insights to help your organisation attract top talent, foster inclusivity, and lead the way in inclusive hiring practices. Let’s dive in.

1. The Impact of the European Accessibility Act (EAA) on Recruitment

The European Accessibility Act (EAA) will officially take effect in 2025, with the deadline for compliance set for June 28th. The overarching goal is to reduce barriers in key areas, including employment, making it easier for people with disabilities to access opportunities. Any business with a market or headquartered presence within an EU member state must comply.

The EAA covers all manner of technologies, including websites, apps, and online forms and documents. To ensure compliance and alignment with inclusive recruitment best practices, your organisation should ensure that your recruitment websites, job applications, and online assessments are fully accessible. This includes:

• Building an accessible website/careers website 
• Writing accessible job descriptions 
• Creating application forms and portals that are navigable using screen readers

You can find all the resources you need to provide an inclusive candidate journey in Recite Me’s inclusive recruitment checklist.

2. Advancements in AI and How They’re Reshaping Inclusive Hiring Trends

Artificial intelligence is playing an increasingly pivotal role in inclusive recruitment. From screening resumes to conducting initial candidate assessments, AI tools can help eliminate human biases and provide a more objective, inclusive hiring process. However, it's crucial to ensure that AI systems themselves are free from bias and that their design and implementation align with your DEI goals.

When AI recruitment tools are developed with a focus on diversity and inclusion, they can:

• Enhance accessibility 
• Promote fairness and objectivity 
• Improve transparency 
• Broaden your candidate pool

However, it’s not an all-encompassing solution, as human instinct and empathy will continue to be equally crucial drivers in creating inclusive and hospitable work environments.

3. Remote and Flexible Working: A Catalyst for Inclusion

Remote work continues to be a significant trend as we enter 2025, with increased numbers of work-from-home (WFH) employees across all industries. This is especially advantageous for recruiting candidates with disabilities or those from underserved regions. Here’s a list of best practices to follow:

• Offer flexible interview scheduling options for remote interviews and alternative interview formats such as asynchronous video or phone interviews. 
• Invest in virtual onboarding and ongoing support for remote workers. 
• Provide digitally accessible collaboration tools, project management software, time tracking and focus apps, etc. 
• Commit to adjustments on an individual basis –like providing screen reader software for employees with vision deficits.

By offering these flexible work arrangements, your organisation can tap into a broader, more diverse pool of talent while simultaneously demonstrating your commitment to inclusivity.

4. A Focus on Digital Accessibility: Expanding DEI Through Technology

Digital accessibility is already a pretty big deal, and it’s not going anywhere anytime soon. By making your digital channels, forms, and media content accessible to all, your organisation can improve the recruitment experience for candidates while also ensuring you attract a diverse range of applicants. Top tips for enhanced digital accessibility include:

• Ensuring your website aligns with Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG). 
• Offering multiple communication channels to accommodate different preferences and abilities so candidates can choose the method that best aligns with their strengths and comfort level. 
• Designing accessible application forms with ample guidance and instructions for completion.

5. The Role of Employer Branding in Attracting Diverse Talent

Creating a strong employer brand that highlights your commitment to DEI helps you stand out as an employer of choice and attract top talent for your teams. Today’s candidates—and especially those from younger generations—are more likely to apply to companies that reflect their values and demonstrate a commitment to social responsibility.

Not sure how to build a brand that reflects your commitment to diversity and inclusion? Here are a few best practices to get you started:

• Ensure that job postings are welcoming to candidates from all backgrounds. 
• Showcase inclusive images on your website and recruitment materials that include people of varied race, gender, age, ability, etc. 
• Write and display an accessibility statement on your website. 
• Become a Disability Confident employer. 
• Highlight stories of diverse employees and their growth within your company.

You can pick up more hints and tips for marketing yourself as an inclusive brand in Recite Me’s comprehensive inclusive marketing checklist.