6 Interview Questions About Diversity and Why They Matter

There are few more critical questions to assess cultural fit than interview questions about diversity and inclusion. So many companies are finally realising the genuine business benefits of a diverse and inclusive workforce. Most job seekers should expect a question or two on these topics during their interviews. 

Think about what diversity and inclusion mean to you. There will undoubtedly be examples that you can share from your previous roles (good and bad). Authentic and thoughtful responses could help to set you apart from a candidate who is less well prepared. How would you answer these six common D&I questions?

Why are diversity and inclusion important? Working with others from a variety of backgrounds and experiences enhances every aspect of working life. If we are all open to new ideas and everyone has an equal voice. Show you understand that diversity concerns age, sexual orientation, ableism and many other issues alongside race and gender. It is a sad reflection on modern life that this is still an issue. Diversity is what makes us human.

How do you seek to understand the perspectives of others from diverse backgrounds? Getting to know every colleague is key to a diverse and productive workplace. It is all too easy to fall into comfortable work cliques. When the tough decisions come, you need to draw upon meaningful relationships with a broader range of people. Value the perspectives of others in the small matters. Big decisions will then look after themselves.

Thoughtful interview questions about diversity

How do you ensure that your workplace decisions are free of bias? This is an opportunity to demonstrate that you have learned from experience. If we are honest, we have all made decisions that have been tinged with bias for one reason or another. Hold your hands up, tell your unflattering story and then show you have learned your lesson. Put people and profits first. There is no place for any kind of bias in workplace decision-making.

If a colleague is being racist or homophobic, what would you do? Sadly, many of us will have experienced this sort of behaviour. Hopefully, most of us will have stepped in to intervene (without overstepping workplace boundaries). If passive observers do nothing, this is tacit permission for offenders to continue with such attitudes. Be polite, explain why you feel such things are inappropriate and give time for reflection.

What is the most common mistake when trying to create a diverse environment? Having a diverse workforce is fantastic; but accommodating so many differing perspectives is tricky when it comes to decision-making. Psychological safety is vital, so people aren’t scared to share their differing opinions, but there should also be a strong culture of business-first reasoning for decisions. In this way, people are less likely to get offended.

How do you explain the benefits of diversity to someone who just doesn’t get it? Happily, this is not just a matter of opinion. Countless facts point to the benefits of diversity. If you are applying to an employer who is strong on DEI, do your research. McKinsey found that companies in the top quartile for diversity and inclusion are 35% more likely to see above-average returns than their less diverse competitors.

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This blog is shared with Job Seeker Duetists. 

Written by former recruitment ghostwriter Paul Drury (not AI).