What work experience do you have relating to people with backgrounds different from your own?

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What NOT to Say
1st Answer Example
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Community Answers

Some of the core values of Johnson & Johnson are supporting inclusion, diversity, and championing women in the workplace. This is an integral part of the culture of their brand. This question is meant to help them assess how closely your values align with theirs.

Everyone's backgrounds are different, and everyone has something to offer. Without exposure to new experiences or new people with diverse backgrounds, it's difficult to foster learning or growth. Likewise, innovation isn't as bountiful without diversity. Incorporate these key points when formulating your answer. Your answer should highlight a universal human experience.

Stay away from listing off races or ethnicities. Avoid stereotypes.

"I enjoy listening to the stories of people from generations before me, and people with backgrounds different from my own. I will eagerly strike up a conversation with anyone in an attempt to learn something new. I recently read that ageism is still a prevalent issue in the workplace, which I find unfortunate. One bit of advice that has stuck with me for years is when my mentor suggested that I seek friendships with people of different generations. There are many benefits of friendships across generations, including a much broader perspective on life. I also notice different communication styles and varying core values, which I find interesting. Rest assured, should you choose me to join Johnson & Johnson, I will get to know my co-workers with an open mind and an interest in their background and story."

"I feel so fortunate with my current organization because I get to work with people from all over the world with many different cultural beliefs. Growing up, I was never exposed to a diverse environment until I traveled away for college. For me, I have learned so much about myself, the world, and this industry from others who have a different background than me. Heading into this job search, I prioritized finding an organization that truly values the diversity of their workforce and I'm confident I found that here at Johnson & Johnson."

Anonymous Answer

"As a sailing coach, I have met many people of different abilities and backgrounds and I pride myself on my encouragement of everyone's background to be an open topic and allow others to feel in a comfortable, safe space."

Amanda's Feedback

Many companies are working to emphasize the value that can be found in celebrating our differences. You can better highlight your experience working in a diverse and inclusive environment by talking about specific projects you worked on with a diverse team and how embracing those differences helped you solve problems or meet a goal. If you have any formal training in diversity and inclusion, this is also a great opportunity to talk about that experience. In the end, try to share how you celebrate diversity and remain inclusive in the workplace or other environments. Do you listen to other people's stories with empathy, ask thoughtful questions, or strive to always keep an open mind? If so, share how this has helped you build strong, trusting relationships with those who are different from you.

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Anonymous Answer

"I have gained work experience relating to people of many different backgrounds including many different ages. I believe that every single individual is different in their own way and each experience I have has taught me something new. I have spent a lot of time working with the elderly where I have gained respect for the massive world of change they have had with technology throughout their days. I have met with younger people who only know technology and just how they are managing it. I have met with middle-aged people who have experienced both their parents' generation and their world of technology change. I think every experience has made me appreciate that all the technology is growing so fast and this may be scary. It ultimately has benefitted everyone in their own way."

Amanda's Feedback

This answer illustrates that you have substantial experience working with people of different ages and backgrounds. You can enhance your answer by talking to the interviewer about the skills you use to relate to people of diverse backgrounds such as respect for each one's culture or individuality, active listening, or an empathetic approach. This helps the interviewer see that you have the skills to work with anyone in an inclusive and respectful way.