The job description should be written to indicate an interest in candidates who will advance the goal of increasing the representation of women in STEM and SBE at UVA.   

• Remember that you are describing a position and not a person (e.g., “results-driven,” “action-oriented,” “people –person”).  These types of phrases are vague descriptions of people rather than positions.  These phrases can deter high-quality candidates from applying for the positions if they do not think of themselves in these terms.   Phrases such as “ability to take initiative and produce results” or “ability to collaborate effectively” describe behaviors and have less chance for biased interpretations.

• Proactive language should be included in job descriptions to indicate a department’s and university’s commitment to diversity.