Posting a job
Creating accessible and inclusive job postings is the first step in building a diverse and talented team. Use clear language, highlight accommodations, and ensure accessibility to attract a wide range of applicants and make the hiring process more inclusive for all candidates, including youth with disabilities.
A day at Victoria Golf Club with youth employees with disabilities.
Why this matters
57% of youth with disabilities identified difficulty finding an accommodating job as one of the top barriers in their job search.
Employment Strategy for Youth with Disabilities youth survey
When job postings are unclear or don’t mention accommodations, candidates may not apply—even if they have the skills. Ensuring job postings are accessible, welcoming, and transparent, encourages diverse applicants and helps you connect with the best talent for the job.
Accessible and inclusive job postings
Creating an inclusive and accessible job posting ensures that all potential candidates, including youth with disabilities, feel welcomed and encouraged to apply. Use these practices to create job postings that remove barriers and attract diverse talent.
Use plain language
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Write your job posting in plain language.
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Short sentences and simple words make job descriptions easier to understand.
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Aim for a Grade 6 reading level so your message reaches the widest audience.
⚒️ Tools to check reading level
Microsoft Word
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Accessibility contact information
Clearly list contact information for applicants who need accommodations or adjustments at any stage of the hiring process.
📠 Example contact
Name
Firstname Lastname
they/them
HR or Hiring Manager
Phone
555-999-2025
Hours
8:30 AM PST - 4:30 PM PST
Clearly explain the application process
Manage expectations by outlining each hiring process step so applicants know what to expect.
💡 Example
We aim to make our hiring process clear and accessible. Below are the steps in our application process:
1️⃣
Submit your application
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Send your resume and cover letter outlining your interest and experience.
2️⃣
Application review
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All applicants will be reviewed based on qualifications and experience.
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Due to the volume of applicants, only selected candidates will be contacted.
3️⃣
Interviews
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Shortlisted candidates will be invited for an interview.
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If accommodations are needed, let us know during scheduling.
4️⃣
Work sample
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Selected candidates may be asked to submit a work sample relevant to the role.
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Instructions will be provided at that time.
5️⃣
Final selection
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The successful candidate will be contacted with an offer.
More resources
Creating accessible job postings is a great place to start, but ensuring that all potential candidates, including youth with disabilities, feel welcomed and encouraged to apply goes further. These resources provide additional learning and support to navigate the employment journey.
Use an inclusive job posting format
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Use structured formatting and bullet points to ensure clarity.
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Highlight key information such as job responsibilities, qualifications, and benefits.
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Provide clear instructions for submitting applications, including file formats and naming conventions.
📄 Template
[Job Title]
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Location: [Specify location or indicate if remote]
We need your talent!
Company: [Name of Company and brief description of what it does and its mission].
Job Description
Your main responsibilities will include:
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Your work will help [state why this job is important to the company].
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[Provide a detailed overview of the role’s responsibilities].
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On a day-to-day basis, you will:
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[List key tasks associated with the job].
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Work [alone/as part of a team/as a team leader, etc.].
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The hours and schedule will include:
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[Specify full-time/part-time, number of hours per week, or any flexible scheduling options]
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[Specify shifts, days of the week, or whether the role requires evening, weekend, or on-call availability].
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[Specify number of vacation days per year, number of paid sick days, and any personal days that are included].
Compensation
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[Include a wage or salary range for the position]
Requirements and Qualifications
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[List required skills, experience, and educational background].
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[Include any necessary certifications or technical requirements].
Additional Skills
We value:
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[List relevant professional skills such as teamwork, communication, adaptability, etc.]
Perks and Benefits
This position offers:
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[List benefits such as flexible work arrangements, health benefits, professional development, etc.].
How to Apply
Submit Your Resume and Cover Letter
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Update your documents with your most recent work experience, education, and skills.
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Ensure your contact information is accurate and up to date.
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Save your resume and cover letter as PDFs using the following format:
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FirstName_LastName_CoverLetter.pdf
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FirstName_LastName_Resume.pdf
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Send your application via email to [example@email.com] with [Job Title] in the subject line or submit it in person at [specified location].
Our Commitment to Inclusive Hiring
We value every applicant and strive to create a culture of growth, teamwork, and inclusion. We recognize potential and consider a blend of education and experience.
If you think you have the skills, we encourage you to apply—even if you don’t meet every qualification! Let’s connect and explore opportunities—whether now or in the future.
For any questions or accessibility requests, please contact [Insert Name] at [example@email.com] or by phone at [111-111-1111].
Further learning
For more information on inclusive hiring, explore the CanWork BC youth tool Employment Essentials workbook (PDF 3.6 MB). This resource can serve as a reference for further learning or be shared with youth to help them confidently navigate the hiring process.
Employment support for youth
Want to support youth with disabilities in their employment journey? Share our CanWork BC youth tool, an interactive platform designed to help youth with disabilities navigate employment with confidence. This resource empowers youth with disabilities by providing self-guided information, activities, and support.
Disclaimer
This resource is intended to help employers understand their rights and responsibilities when hiring youth with disabilities. It provides information on key concepts and directs users to relevant resources.
The content above is not a substitute for professional legal advice. Please refer to the included links or consult official legislation and resources for current and accurate information.
Highlight accommodations
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Include an Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) statement in job postings.
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Go one step further and give examples of accommodations you offer. This shows a commitment to accessibility and supports applicants with disabilities to feel comfortable applying.
📖 More information
Find our templates for creating EDI statements.