In the context of applicant selection, what does the term 'anonymous' refer to?

The term 'anonymous' in the context of applicant selection primarily refers to the omission of personal identifiers. This practice is often adopted to eliminate bias during the hiring process, ensuring that decisions are made based solely on the applicants’ qualifications, skills, and experiences rather than influenced by their identity, which may include their name, ethnicity, gender, or other personal information.

By removing these identifiers, hiring managers can focus on relevant qualifications and capabilities, promoting a fairer evaluation process. In many cases, organizations aim to create a more equitable selection process by maintaining anonymity, which can help in addressing issues related to discrimination and bias. This approach can contribute to a more diverse and inclusive workplace by allowing candidates to be assessed based on their competencies rather than their personal characteristics.