Job Ads Without Ableist Language Get More Applicants

Companies looking to hire more qualified candidates just discovered a surprisingly simple solution: stop using corporate buzzwords in job ads.

A new University of Guelph study analyzed over 1,800 job postings across the U.S. and Canada and found something remarkable. When researchers removed phrases like "fast-paced," "jump in with both feet," and "stand out in a crowd," more people wanted to apply.

Dr. Melissa Walker led the research team in creating the first ableist dictionary for job postings. They identified common phrases that unintentionally exclude people with disabilities, from obvious terms like "blind spots" to seemingly harmless words like "agile" and "energetic."

The findings surprised everyone. While people with disabilities were significantly less likely to apply to jobs with ableist language, people without disabilities also preferred the more neutral ads.

"You can't just add more pay and assume it cancels out the language in your job ads," Walker explains. Even when researchers increased salary levels in the postings, the negative impact of exclusionary language remained.

The study found that 84% of job postings contained ableist language, while only 19% included equal employment opportunity statements. Fewer than 10% mentioned workplace accommodations.

The Ripple Effect

The research reveals something powerful about workplace culture. When companies use inclusive language, they signal openness to all applicants, not just those with disabilities.

One study participant captured this perfectly: "Fast-paced, flexible work requirements negatively influenced my decision to apply for that company, as that kind of work is not suitable for me. I am a slow and methodical person."

The implications extend beyond disability inclusion. These same phrases can deter older workers, parents with caregiving responsibilities, or anyone who doesn't fit the "hustle culture" mold.

Dr. Deborah Powell, who supervised the research, points to signaling theory. Job ads communicate volumes about company culture with limited information. Clear, accurate language attracts candidates who genuinely fit the role.

The solution couldn't be simpler. Walker recommends starting with those punchy colloquialisms that add little meaning. Instead of "jump right in," try "begin immediately." Replace "fast-paced environment" with "changing environment."

The research team hopes their ableist dictionary will evolve into a comprehensive tool companies can use to check their own job postings. For now, the message is clear: plain language helps everyone understand what the job actually requires.

With new Ontario legislation requiring salary disclosure in job postings, the timing is perfect for companies to rethink their entire approach to recruitment language.

Simple words open doors for everyone.