Spot the gender bias – play now!
How to play
- Read the job description.
- Click on any words or phrases that look gender-biased or stereotyped.
- Replace them with the suggested neutral wording.
- Get instant feedback and see the corrected version.
- Try all three rounds to become a gender-bias buster!
Round 1 – Receptionist
We are looking for a trustworthy receptionist to welcome visitors and keep the office cheerful. She must have a pleasant personality and support the office team.
There are 3 examples of gender-biased terms, coloured red below. We explain why the author may wish to change his/her language.
Round 1 – Receptionist
We are looking for a trustworthy receptionist to welcome visitors and keep the office cheerful. She must have a pleasant personality and support the office team.
The text below shows the same job description, with the language revised to avoid gender-biased or stereotypical wording.
Round 1 – Receptionist
We are looking for a receptionist to welcome visitors, manage the reception desk, schedule appointments and support office administration.
Round 2 – Warehouse worker
Looking for a strong young man to join our warehouse team. Must be able to lift boxes and assist the foreman.
There are 2 examples of gender-biased terms, coloured red below. We explain why the author may wish to change his/her language.
Round 2 – Warehouse worker
Looking for a strong young man to join our warehouse team. Must be able to lift boxes and assist the foreman.
The text below shows the same job description, with the language revised to avoid gender-biased or stereotypical wording.
Round 2 – Warehouse worker
Looking for a warehouse worker to handle goods (up to 20 kg), operate lifting equipment and assist the team leader.
Round 3 – Team leader
We are seeking a dynamic candidate with natural authority to lead a fast-paced team. Must be decisive and able to command respect.
There are 2 examples of terms with implicit stereotyping, coloured red below. We explain why the author may wish to change his/her language.
Round 3 – Team leader
We are seeking a dynamic candidate with natural authority to lead a fast-paced team. Must be decisive and able to command respect.
The text below shows the same job description, with the language revised to avoid gender-biased or stereotypical wording.
Round 3 – Team leader
We are seeking a team leader to coordinate daily tasks, set priorities, support workers and ensure that targets are met.
Well done! You’ve corrected three biased job descriptions.
Remember
- Always use gender-neutral job titles.
- Replace stereotypes associated with women or men with clear, factual tasks.
- Recognise all types of skills, including emotional and organisational ones.
Mistakes to avoid
- Using gendered or informal job titles (e.g. ‘bar girl’, ‘waitress’, ‘salesman’).
- Using language that reinforces gender stereotypes (e.g. ‘tough’, ‘decisive leader’ or ‘a friendly receptionist’).
- Describing characteristics instead of specifying job requirements.
- Overlooking emotional or social skills, which are often undervalued or ‘invisible’.
Downloads
For more detailed guidance, download the step-by-step toolkit and check Tool 6.
EU-wide guidelines on gender-neutral job evaluation and classification: Step-by-step toolkit