Selection Guidelines for Employers

The Tasmanian Anti-Discrimination Act 1998 requires employers to create a workplace that is free from discrimination and harassment.

There is nothing to be gained by proclaiming - "We are an equal opportunity employer" then proceeding to appoint, promote or dismiss employees in accordance with rules that have 'always' been applied.

Employers must use non-discriminatory practices and follow non-discriminatory procedures - not only when someone is in the job but for all processes leading up to someone getting a job, job advertisements, position descriptions, duty statements, appointment process etc.

In employment the idea is to recruit the best person for the job.  Removing discrimination from the recruitment process will help employers achieve this result.

Decisions made on the basis of stereotypical attitudes rather than assessing the suitability of the individual applicant may cause an employer to narrow the field and possibly miss out on the best person for the job.

Potential employees who know that your company has good EEO principles and know that they won't be disadvantaged by irrelevant facts are more likely to apply for positions in your organisation.  This equals you as the employer getting the best person for the job.

GUIDELINES

Examine the existing position

• Have the position duties changed over time?
• What are the inherent requirements of the position?
• Break the requirements into 'essential' and 'desirable' criteria

Examine wording in advertisements, application forms and other documentation

• Do not use stereotypical or discriminatory language or discriminatory requirements

Examine selection processes to ensure procedural fairness

• Applicants should be informed of the process to be used and given equal opportunity to demonstrate their suitability

Discrimination may occur in all areas of employment.  Check and revise all workplace policies and procedures to ensure your workplace is discrimination and harassment free.

TRAINING

Train your recruitment staff so they are aware of anti-discrimination legislation and your work placement policies.

The Office of the Anti-Discrimination Commissioner provides a new training course on Recruitment and Selection.  Check out upcoming dates on our Training calendar or contact Trainer Roz Smart to arrange a training session specifically for your workplace.