What have you done this year to further your knowledge and understanding of diversity?
The interviewer wants to discuss your interest in expanding your understanding of diversity and inclusion. Show that you go beyond saying the right words and that you have taken action to grow your knowledge and empathy toward people with characteristics different from your own. If you have not recently pursued a broader understanding of diversity, some excellent resources can be found on Coursera, Udemy, edX, and Microsoft online.
"This year I have taken a keen interest in diversity and inclusion efforts, especially in light of the Black Lives Matter movement, and other calls for equality. Over the past six months, I have immersed myself in multiple online courses, including a course called Race and Cultural Diversity in American Life and History. I took another course on what it means to identify as transgender and gender non-conforming since, admittedly, I had a lot to learn. I am pleased to say that I have learned a great deal about other groups and myself along the way. I will continue to educate myself and broaden my knowledge as I believe this topic demands more attention from the majority of working professionals."
Community answers are written by other candidates practicing this set. Reading how others frame the same question is one of the fastest ways to sharpen your own.
Anonymous Answer
I have read testimonials online of people who come from a lower socioeconomic standing and their challenges in life. There are systemic reasons why lower-class people cannot perform as well because they don't have the same opportunities to go to college or have family connections to a business. This is why in order to achieve equality we need to provide privilege to those who are less privileged so they are on the same level. For instance, if I were hiring, I would not fault someone for not being able to afford a degree or being from a less privileged race.
Amanda's Feedback
With this question, the interviewer is trying to assess your level of interest in and commitment to diversity. It's important to demonstrate that your commitment goes further than saying the right things. Consider enhancing your answer by talking about the action you've taken to expand your knowledge in the area of diversity, equity, and inclusion such as completing workplace training, participating in online courses, purposefully collaborating with diverse teams, etc.
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