The blind recruitment process removes all identifying details from a candidate’s graduate applicationPublishing giant, Harper Collins, has announced that this year, it will introduce blind recruitment to its Graduate Scheme application process for the first time in its 20+ year history.
The blind recruitment process removes all identifying details from a candidate’s graduate application, which enables the recruitment team to evaluate the candidate based on their skills, experience and suitability, while eliminating any factors that could lead towards biased decision-making.
The application will be free of personal details, such as the candidate’s name, age, ethnicity, gender and where they were educated.
The blind recruitment process was created in response to concern over racial prejudice, sexism and gender inequality and the varying reputation of schools. A number of studies revealed that job candidates with white-sounding names were more successful in getting a response to an application than a candidate with an African-American or foreign-sounding name.
Similarly, another study found that a higher proportion of white applicants received places at top UK universities than applicants from ethnic minorities.
Once the Harper Collins recruitment team has established a shortlist using the blind recruitment process, prospective candidates will participate in an assessment that takes place over two days. This will include a presentation to Harper Collins UK’s executive committee, including chief executive officer, Charlie Redmayne.
Two candidates will then be selected to gain experience with the publisher in areas including public relations, marketing, editorial, sales and digital over an 18-month rotational period. The remaining shortlisted candidates will enter the company’s talent pipeline, with potential openings for entry level positions.
Commenting on the blind recruitment process, director of people, John Athanasiou, said it was an ideal process for ensuring the best talent is selected in an impartial way. He noted that all hiring managers would be trained on unconscious bias, which is when an individual’s experiences influence their actions without them being aware it has happened.
Successful candidates will be based at the publisher’s London Bridge offices in the News Building, where they will enjoy spectacular views and amenities including a restaurant floor, book shop, tech bar, and more.
Graduates will receive mentoring from senior staff, along with training and support throughout the business, as well as the usual perks you would expect from a large company, such as private health care, discounted gym membership and subsidised dining options.
The Harper Collins Graduate Scheme application process opens on 4 March and closes at the end of the month.
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