Would you please help me consider a useful, if not beneficial, response to an interview question that goes something like this: “We at (organization name) are committed to diversity, equity and inclusion. Would you tell us how you are prepared to work effectively with colleagues and external stakeholders from backgrounds that are different from your own, and to contribute to our commitment to D.E.I.? Feel free to think broadly about your response, applying various aspects of your life and personal experiences.”
I was asked this question by a panel consisting of three white women and one white man in senior positions, my age (50s) or or younger (30s to 40s), no visible disabilities. I am and appear Latina (Spanish name, dark hair, brown skin). I am not comfortable disclosing personal information (such as a non-visible disability, background as an immigrant, queer identity, etc.). I commended their commitment to D.E.I., not least because of the range of expertise and complementary skills it brings together. But then I went on to note that, as the only person of color in the room and having successfully lived, studied, and worked for decades in predominantly white institutions, I am well prepared to work with and among people whose backgrounds differ from my own. This did not go over well. I really need a new job. I would appreciate your thoughts on perhaps a more politic response.— Anonymous
I, like many others, have encountered versions of this I, like many others, have encountered versions of this question for at least 15 years. I always want to submit a two-word response, “I’m Black,” though I refrain because I assume it won’t go over well, as you discovered. When you’re marginalized or underrepresented, you’re always working with and living among people with backgrounds different from your own. The expectation that you need to articulate how your reality has prepared you to contribute to an organization’s diversity, equity and inclusion efforts can be frustrating. It is rare that companies are asking this question sincerely, but they do want you to answer sincerely or, at least, tell them what they want to hear. For now, let’s assume questions like this are being asked in good faith. There are many resources online that offer guidance on how to answer diversity-related questions. The indeed.com “Career Guide,” for example, offers sample questions and answers. Do some research about different ways to answer this question, and think through how you can answer them using your own voice and perspective.
