Top Tips for Reducing Bias in Your Interview Process
As specialist recruiters, we’ve seen first-hand how unconscious bias can influence hiring decisions, often without anyone even realising it. Adopting a more structured, objective approach can make a huge difference when it comes to fair and effective hiring. Drawing on our experience across the not for profit and public sectors, we’ve pulled together our top tips to help you reduce bias and build a more inclusive, impactful interview process.
1. Use a Structured Interview Format
Ask every candidate the same core set of questions. This keeps things consistent and makes it easier to compare responses objectively.
2. Create a Clear Scoring check list
Define what a great answer looks like before the interview. Score each candidate’s response using the same criteria to reduce gut-feeling decisions.
3. Be Aware of Unconscious Bias
We all have biases, it’s human. Training and self-awareness can help you notice when bias might be creeping in (e.g., favouring someone because they remind you of yourself).
4. Use Diverse Interview Panels
Different perspectives help balance out individual biases. A mixed panel can provide a fairer, more rounded view of a candidate.
5. Take Notes During Interviews
Relying on memory can lead to selective recall. Taking notes keeps feedback focused on what was actually said, not just how you felt.
6. Avoid Overvaluing “Culture Fit”
Instead of looking for someone who fits your existing culture, look for “culture add”, someone who brings new ideas and perspectives to the team.
7. Review Feedback Together
If you’re on a panel, discuss your feedback as a group after everyone has submitted their notes. This reduces the influence of dominant voices and helps balance opinions.
If you're looking to strengthen your interview process or want expert support with building a more inclusive recruitment strategy, we're here to help. Get in touch to find out how we can support your hiring goals with insight, structure, and specialist expertise.
hello@thetalentset.co.uk or call us on 020 3887 4207.
