About the campaign

Consulting firm EY launched its UK Neuro-Diverse Centre of Excellence (NCoE) in January 2022, mirroring its hiring model in the US. Feedback from the hiring process showed that designing interview stages and testing for neurodivergent individuals is not enough. EY needed to ensure job adverts and emails communications were inclusive of neurodiverse applicants; that the application process was not too long; that every step was transparent; and that there was a static set of communications.

A new approach asked candidates to ‘choose their own adventure’, using advanced automation via a new CRM system. Applicants select their preferred method of communication (eg. video, audio) and each touchpoint is presented in this style.

Automation allows EY to amplify the human element so the hiring team can spend more time with individuals in the process. In addition, there is a five-day ‘superweek’ where candidates learn about the company and EY can understand their skills.

EY discovered that its usual palette of black, grey and yellow was less appealing to neurodivergent candidates so created an infographic journey in a secondary palette for these applicants.

EY has reduced the onus on the candidate to request reasonable adjustments during the process. Offering a choice of communications styles also means EY can receive feedback in real time on what neurodivergent candidates prefer. Candidates have commented positively, such as “the colours are really helpful for me”, and the fact that “this process and being in the NCoE is a bit different and we celebrate diversity”.