By Dr. Kelly S. Meier Updated July 01, 2018
Changing demographics and a global economy requires an understanding of diversity and multiculturalism. Communicating cultural competence when answering questions about diversity is essential. Diversity questions are one way that a future employer can learn more about where you stand. Even if you do not feel like a diversity expert, preparation will help you convey a sincere commitment to inclusion. Creating an environment that helps everyone feel welcome is critical. An interview is your moment to demonstrate how you can be part of the solution.
Preparation is Key
Examine your own understanding of diversity. Read about inclusion and multiculturalism. Anything you can do to become more informed about cultural competence will help you be ready for interview questions about diversity. Research the organization to learn more about how they value diversity. Read the core values, mission and vision statement.
Example:
I’m really impressed that the core values of your organization include a commitment to diversity. That is a value that I share.
Example:
I was drawn to your organization because of your stated commitment to diversity on your website.
Show Authenticity
Be genuine when talking about your commitment to diversity. When asked a question about diversity, discuss your direct experiences with people of different cultures. Refrain from saying you don’t see color. Instead, explain the value of honoring diverse cultures and learning from others. If you are sincere in your answers to diversity questions, your true character will shine.
Example:
I am eager to learn from others. Cultural diversity enriches the work environment and makes us stronger as a team.
Emphasize Inclusion
A team is only effective if everyone feels included. Emphasize that everyone has special talents and gifts to share. Discussing inclusion speaks to diversity, but it also hits on teamwork. Employers are looking for team players and are seeking people who work well together. Combining teamwork and inclusion will make you a desirable candidate.
Example:
Teamwork and inclusion are at the heart of valuing diversity. I work hard to make sure all voices are heard.
Honor the Importance of Diversity
An employer who asks you about diversity is telling you how important it is to the organization. Go on offense and reinforce this by underscoring how much you value diversity. You may even do this in a question that doesn’t focus on diversity. Working diversity into a variety of questions lets an employer know that you think like a multiculturalist. Apply this idea to questions about communication, supervision and morale.
Example:
I believe that learning about the similarities and differences of others creates a team that communicates at a high level.
Example:
I work hard to develop relationships with others so that I can truly understand who they are as individuals. This helps me know how best we can work together.
Provide Specific Examples
If possible, give specific examples of how you have developed your diversity skills. Be sure to include diversity training, studying or traveling abroad, hosting an exchange student or being a member of a diversity organization. If you speak a second language or have any relevant skills, this is the time to share them. An employer will be impressed with solid evidence showing you understand and appreciate diversity.
Example:
I volunteered with a community organization that worked with diverse populations. This experience really opened my eyes to diversity.
FAQs
When you're asked about diversity and inclusion, try to give specific examples from your own experiences. This could be about times when you worked well with people who were different from you, or how you helped make everyone feel included.
How to best answer diversity questions in an interview? ›
It's best to stick to the basics. You should explain that diversity means having differences and having as many diverse networks as possible. It includes coping with racial and ethnic diversity, gender, sexual orientation, religion, disability, age, etc.
Should you answer diversity questions? ›
Communicating cultural competence when answering questions about diversity is essential. Diversity questions are one way that a future employer can learn more about where you stand. Even if you do not feel like a diversity expert, preparation will help you convey a sincere commitment to inclusion.
What does diversity mean to you in the workplace answer? ›
Example: "To me, diversity means a variety of backgrounds, people and perspectives. In my experience, it can bring out better solutions and make the corporate atmosphere more welcoming.
How do you describe your ability to work with diverse individuals? ›
For example, you can articulate how you value diversity as a source of richness and innovation, how you respect and celebrate the differences and similarities among people, or how you strive to create a culture of belonging and empowerment for everyone.
How do you answer diversity prompts? ›
Tips for Writing a Diversity College Essay
- Highlight what makes you stand out. A common misconception is that diversity only refers to aspects—such as ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation, or socioeconomic status. ...
- Share an anecdote. ...
- Show, don't tell. ...
- Discuss how your diversity shapes your outlook and actions.
Be genuine when talking about your commitment to diversity. Think about your direct experiences with people of different cultures prior to a face-to-face interview, where you should avoid saying you “don't see color.” Instead, explain the value of honoring diverse cultures and learning from others.
What is the star technique in interviewing? ›
STAR stands for Situation, Task, Action and Result and it's a technique you can use to not only strengthen your answers but create a narrative and structure as well. We recommend the STAR interview method to candidates who want to tailor direct and concise answers to impress interviewers.
What is the hardest part of working in a diverse environment? ›
One of the most challenging aspects of diverse working environments is the ability not only to acknowledge but understand and potentially integrate, perspectives and thinking that can be so significantly different from our own. These can contradict our long-held beliefs and ideas.
How to answer tell me about yourself? ›
The best way to answer "Tell me about yourself" is with a brief highlight-summary of your experience, your education, the value you bring to an employer, and the reason you're looking forward to learning more about this next job and the opportunity to work with them.
Diversity is a satisfying mix of ideas, cultures, races, genders, economic statuses and other characteristics necessary for promoting growth and learning among a group. having variety in religious, racial, cultural, and geographic backgrounds as well as experiences, beliefs, and. world view (social diversity)
What is the best example of diversity at the workplace? ›
Gender is a prime example of diversity in the workplace. It was once thought that men were the primary breadwinners while the women stayed home and kept the house and raised the children. But in the modern world, women are forging their own career paths.
Why should we hire you? ›
A: When answering, focus on your relevant skills, experience, and achievements that make you the best fit for the role.You should hire me because I am a hard worker who wants to help your company succeed. I have the skills and experience needed for the job, and I am eager to learn and grow with your team .
How to answer a diversity interview question? ›
When you're asked about diversity and inclusion, try to give specific examples from your own experiences. This could be about times when you worked well with people who were different from you, or how you helped make everyone feel included.
How to explain flexibility as a strength? ›
Flexibility is the capacity to adjust to short-term change , quickly and calmly, so that you can deal with unexpected problems or tasks effectively. Here are a few examples of how you might demonstrate it: Offer to help out another team member if you notice that they are overloaded.
How do you say you work with a diverse group of people? ›
Recognized for fostering a diverse and inclusive work environment that encourages collaboration and innovation. I have a diverse background in various jobs and have worked with diverse people. My diverse experiences have given me a diverse set of skills that I can bring to any job.
How do you respond to diversity in the workplace? ›
Communicate Diversity Policies
Hold mandatory company diversity training sessions that review the policies and explain the ramifications. Provide examples of common situations where diversity issues arise. Some managers host one-on-one meetings with team members to role-play and review areas that might be problematic.
How would you demonstrate diversity? ›
- Work to highlight and remove bias. Everyone is capable of unconscious bias. ...
- Recognise awareness, cultural, and religious holidays. ...
- Diversity and inclusion training for employees. ...
- Have clear diversity and inclusivity policies. ...
- Ensure equal pay for equal work. ...
- Write inclusive job ads. ...
- Get feedback from employees.
Respectfully listen to the opinions, concerns, and ideas of others. 4. Pursue opportunities to include and engage others who have skills, interests, or experiences that are different from your own. attending DAC Committee sponsored events or Diversity Lunch and Learn training.
