Generative artificial intelligence (GAI) is emerging as a promising tool for improving diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in hiring, according to a new report by talent services firm Seramount. The report, titled Leverage GAI to Diversify Talent, highlights how GAI can assist companies in reducing bias in recruitment practices and fostering more equitable hiring outcomes.
The report is based on interviews with diversity and inclusion officers, human resources executives, and technology experts, as well as secondary research. Meredith McNeill, Seramount’s senior director of research, said the findings underscore GAI’s potential to address workplace disparities.
“Much of the discussion has focused on AI’s risks, such as perpetuating stereotypes and bias,” McNeill said. “But our research highlights how GAI can help organizations diversify their workforce and promote DEI best practices.”
The report identifies three key ways GAI can support diversity initiatives:
- Reducing bias in job descriptions: GAI can scan and edit large volumes of job postings to remove exclusionary or gendered language that may unintentionally discourage applicants from underrepresented groups.
- Enhancing candidate outreach: By tailoring messages with specific tones or cultural nuances, GAI can engage candidates from diverse backgrounds more effectively and at scale.
- Standardizing applicant screening: GAI enables skills-based assessments that ensure candidates are evaluated on consistent criteria, reducing subjective bias from hiring managers.
Seramount’s earlier research shows that 78 per cent of employees value inclusive workplaces that offer equal opportunities regardless of background or demographics. The company notes that inclusive practices can boost retention, productivity, and engagement.
“A diverse workforce improves business outcomes and aligns with employee expectations, but implementing these changes on a large scale is challenging,” McNeill said. “GAI provides a way for companies to increase representation without overburdening talent teams, creating a more level playing field.”
Seramount, which works with more than 650 companies globally, including over half of the Fortune 100, has focused on inclusive workplace strategies for more than 40 years. Its latest report reflects growing interest in how technology can support these efforts while addressing concerns about AI’s potential pitfalls.