How to Find Diversity Jobs That Match Your Values

The workforce of today is not only in search of a paycheck — we are seeking purpose. Many believe the company for which they work should reflect their value system and be dedicated to making a positive impact on the world. Nowhere is that more the case than in diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). However, while many organizations today say that they care about DEI, not all take the steps to create change. Some are just ticking boxes. Others are actively working to create open, welcoming workplaces — and those are the companies that are worth working for.

If you are someone who’s looking to do meaningful work without having to check your identity and values at the door, here’s how to find a diversity-focused job that aligns with who you are.

1. Determine What Diversity Means to You

Diversity doesn’t fit into a one-size-fits-all. And before you start applying, you’ll want to know what kind of environment that includes you is best for you to work in.
Here are some questions you might ask yourself:

Would you prefer a visibly diverse work relationship?
Do you desire leadership that looks like this?

Must there be access for those with disabilities?
Looking for a safe space as a member of the LGBTQ+ community?

Do you feel passionately about mental health policy, flexible work opportunities, or support for working parents?
Defining what is — and what isn’t — negotiable to you will allow you to screen out cultural misfits and zone in on the companies whose values and culture are a direct line to your own.

2. Use the Right Job Boards

Mainstream job boards, such as LinkedIn and Indeed, are good for volume, but they fall short on context around a company’s commitment to DEI. That is where diversity-focused job platforms come in.

Platforms such as DiverseJobsMatter are specifically designed to connect underrepresented talent with inclusive employers. These platforms prescreen companies and spotlight their D.E.I. policies, and are you likely to feature roles you wouldn’t find on traditional job sites? 

3. Decode the Job Description

Even before the interview, job postings can offer clues about how inclusive a workplace really is.

Positive signs to look for:

Inclusive language: "We encourage applications from all backgrounds."

Indices for DEI in benefits: support groups, caregiver leave, well-being programs.

Transparency: salary ranges posted (a sign of pay equity).
Commitment statements: Anti-discrimination explicit policies.

Red flags to watch out for:

Generic “we are committed to diversity” lines without details.

Clichés such as “we’re like a family” (which can mask toxic work cultures).

No reference to flexible work or accommodations.

If the voice in the post rings a bell for you and you say, “Yes, that would be someone I’d like to sit next to in a meeting,” or the posting makes you feel seen, heard or welcome — that’s a positive sign.

4. Investigate the Company’s DEI Vision

Anything can be said on a company website. Your task is to figure out what’s really going on behind that.
Start here:

Glassdoor & Indeed reviews: Sort by keywords such as “diversity,” “inclusive,” “racism,” or “LGBTQ” for unfiltered employee input.

LinkedIn: Check out leadership and team shots — is there demonstrative diversity?

Google news: Google “[Company Name] + discrimination” or “[Company Name] + diversity initiative.”

Annual Reports: Check whether the company releases DEI progress reports, pay equity audits, or employee satisfaction surveys.

A company that is proud of its D.E.I. work will be transparent about both progress and setbacks.

5. During the Interview, be Bold with your Questions

Don’t shy away from the issue of DEI in your interview. It’s a confidence boost and an inside look at whether this is a fit for you.

Here are some thought-provoking questions to ask:

“Do you mind telling us what your diversity and equity and inclusion goals are for this year?”
“What does inclusive leadership look like on your team?”

“Are there employee resource  groups or support networks here?”

“How do you keep it accountable, around inclusion?”

Not only what they say, but how they say it. Do they seem enthusiastic? Hesitant? Proud? Defensive?

Pro tip: Request to talk with a colleague in the future, not just a recruiter. A peer-level look at what the culture is actually like.

6. Listen to Your Instincts

Policy is just a starting point when it comes to culture fit. It is about energy, about inclusion, about how a place makes you feel.

Did the interviewer bother to get your name right?

Did people immediately use your proper pronouns?

Was accessibility part of the discussion from the beginning

Were you treated by others, not as a waste of time or an annoyance, but as having worth or significance?

Finding a diverse job that aligns with your values is about more than just checking boxes. It’s also just about feeling seen and heard and empowered.

You Deserve to Thrive, and Not Just Survive

A job should never ask you to hide parts of yourself. Your values matter. Your background matters. Your existence in a workplace matters too.

More inclusive companies not only help their employees, but they also grow faster, innovate more, and outperform. So, landing a job that aligns with your values is not just good for your mental health — it’s a wise career move.

If you’re a recent grad entering the workforce, an experienced pro seeking a new chapter, or someone who’s returning to work after time away for any reason, there’s a place for you here.

Ready to start searching?

Check out DiverseJobsMatter to see inclusive jobs and employers that care as much about equity as you do!