10 Diversity Interview Questions: [With Sample Answers]

In today’s global workforce, diversity has gained wide notoriety.

The tolerance for bias and cultural insensitivity has significantly reduced.

That being so, preparing yourself for diversity interview questions during different types of interviews is crucial.

It gives you one step closer to aligning with a company’s standards and vision and enhances your professionality.

10 Common Diversity Interview Questions

Whether you’re applying to become a Diversity and Inclusion Manager or Human Resource Manager, interview questions related to diversity are not too far off.

Here are some of the most commonly asked interview questions you can expect.

1. Discuss a moment in your career where working with diverse backgrounds posed a challenge.
2. How have you promoted diversity and inclusion in your past positions?
3. If you become employed in our company, what changes would you make to enhance diversity?
4. What approach do you take to handle miscommunication due to different backgrounds?
5. How do you face culturally insensitive or biased comments in the workplace?
6. What do diversity and inclusion mean to you?
7. Talk about a time when you tried to make a colleague feel more comfortable in a group of different backgrounds.
8. How have you developed your cultural sensitivity?
9. How would you approach a situation where you need to discuss sensitive topics?
10. How do you keep up to date with information regarding diversity and inclusion?

Apart from these diversity-related questions, you should also prepare yourself for other interview questions.

Employers will try to scope out your knowledge in the field and may ask office manager interview questions. Other companies may also ask peer interview questions.

What Should I Say in a Diversity Interview?

Before getting into more details about the questions, you should understand how your responses need to sound.

Overall, you should demonstrate coherency, confidence, and display ample knowledge regarding the position.

What Skills Are Diversity Interviewers Looking for in a Candidate?

• Problem Solving: Conflict resolution plays a critical role in diverse positions. It involves mitigating bias, and confronting microaggressions in an appropriate manner.
• Multicultural Awareness: Building your cultural competence is a dynamic process. You’ll want to keep upgrading your knowledge to cater more successfully to diverse backgrounds. You also need to be aware of your cultural background to understand how it impacts others around you.
• Empathy: Understanding the feelings of others is critical when maintaining a harmonious diverse environment. Empathy paves the way to building trust and meaningful collaborations.
• Communication: This is a key factor in diversity. You need to be persistent when attempting to decipher other people’s needs and wants. Be more aware of how you present information, particularly your body language.
• Flexibility: Openness and curiosity are building blocks of acceptance in a diverse workplace. Your flexibility allows you to shift perspectives and, in turn, gain new knowledge and experiences.

What Traits Are Diversity Interviewers Looking to Avoid in a Candidate?

Besides the traits you want to present in your diversity interview, there are some traits you’ll want to avoid displaying.

• Bias: Displaying certain prejudices is a sure way of removing you from candidacy. Diversity calls for fairness and traits that promote social justice, rather than bias.
• Culturally Incompetent: Lacking enough cultural competence can make you seem unfitting for the position. It may also show a lack of care for the company’s diversity values.
• Resistant to Change: Versatility is an essential trait when it comes to engaging in a diverse workplace. There’s little to no room for defiance against inclusion.

Sample Diversity Interview Questions and Answers

Staying on your toes during an interview is bound to keep you ahead of other candidates.

You also don’t want to only memorize answers since they’ll seem too ingenuine and rehearsed.

Instead, try to gain a sense of the diverse interview questions for the sake of proper interview preparation.

1. Discuss a moment in your career where working with diverse backgrounds posed a challenge.

This question will highly likely come your way in a diversity interview.

It allows your interviewer to scope out your problem-solving skills among other characteristics that can prove beneficial to the company.

Why This Question Is Asked

The company asked you this question to know more about your past experiences of working within a diverse environment.

It points them to how well you can handle common diversity issues such as miscommunication and bias.

What to Focus on When Answering This Question

We suggest mainly touching on your past experiences where you’ve witnessed multiple challenges.

If possible, discuss how the challenges you’ve faced in the past changed to new ones.

Afterward, go into how you’ve overcome these diversity challenges and how differently you’ve handled them throughout the year.

That will help display your career progression.

Make sure to give examples of real-life instances in your past workspace.

That way, your answer will come off as more confident and solid-based.

What To Avoid When Answering This Question

You wouldn’t want to give a short answer with no examples from your past experience.

Avoid straying from the topic as well as not mentioning how you’ve overcome the challenges stated.

Otherwise, it’ll seem like you haven’t handled them well.

Plus, don’t include too many challenges.

They may end up sounding like complaints.

Example Answer

One of the challenges I’ve faced in the diverse environment is finding a mutual agreement on some decisions.

Due to the different backgrounds, a common ground is easier said than done.

Overcoming this challenge leads to creating critical discussions and debates with stronger solutions.

Plus, with trust and respect, my diversity team was able to mitigate most challenges we faced.

2. How have you promoted diversity and inclusion in your past positions?

This question goes into your past experience as well and tries to underpin your accomplishments.

Why This Question Is Asked

Understanding how you’ve promoted inclusion in your career allows the interviewer to critique your initiative and how it aligns with the company’s vision.

It also helps in scoping out your determination levels.

What to Focus on When Answering This Question

Focus on establishing an authentic answer laced with genuine anecdotes on instances of your diversity initiatives.

Discuss the outcome of the initiative and how it benefited your past organization.

What To Avoid When Answering This Question

Avoid missing out on critical information such as the outcome of your initiatives and why this initiative was needed in the first place.

Remain coherent by starting with a situation, then the task followed by the action taken, and, finally, the results.

Example Answer

I was researching the benefits of executing cultural competence seminars for teachers in public schools.

I decided to approach a diverse sample group of students, parents, and teachers to gain more accurate knowledge of the positive effects of these seminars.

The result provided well-aligned research to my university’s diversity standard and proved successful in implementing the seminars.

3. If you become employed in our company, what changes would you make to enhance diversity?

Diverse work environments could always be improved, which is why this interview question is commonly asked.

Why This Question Is Asked

This question helps interviewers gauge how much knowledge they have of the company’s workplace culture and vision.

It also displays your leadership quality when taking steps to enhance diversity.

What to Focus on When Answering This Question

Focus on an aspect you believe the company can improve whether it’s their use of software to promote diversity or their communication routes.

You’ll want to be highly knowledgeable about this issue before discussing it in detail with your interviewer.

What To Avoid When Answering This Question

Avoid pointing out mistakes of the company at the start, instead, always begin with a positive comment. Above all, be respectful rather than listing out negative aspects.

Example Answer

Your company has given lots of thought to championing diversity in its environment.

To improve this vision, I would like to widen the feedback input of colleagues to their superiors.

Some employees may feel unwilling to give their input, so I would propose an anonymous feedback survey for better outreach and inclusivity.

4. What approach do you take to handle miscommunication due to different backgrounds?

Miscommunication is a significant issue when tackling diversity. For this reason, you’ll likely be asked about it in your interview.

Why This Question Is Asked

The interviewer is trying to know how you can lead through miscommunication in a diverse environment.

Since it’s a tough challenge commonly experienced in the field, the company needs to understand your general approach.

What to Focus on When Answering This Question

You need to showcase your approach by highlighting respect, cultural awareness, past experience, and data.

What To Avoid When Answering This Question

Avoid scattering your answer and try to provide a coherent answer by breaking it down into steps.

Start with an example situation and discuss your actions as well as the outcomes.

Example Answer

When noticing miscommunication, I approach the issue with patience.

In one instance, I had a colleague and English was their second language.

To avoid miscommunication, I avoided using technical jargon and remained clear and concise with my discussions.

This has established a better route of communication and built trust.

5. How do you face culturally insensitive or biased comments in the workplace?

In a world of diversity, bias doesn’t stray too far behind.

Colleagues may still voice insensitive comments, without even knowing that they may be insulting another person’s background.

Why This Question Is Asked

This question tackles the importance of guarding diversity against biased and insensitive comments.

The interviewer is likely expecting you to explain a situation where you’ll handle these negative comments to determine your better judgment.

What to Focus on When Answering This Question

Create a scenario or, better yet, grab examples from your past experiences regarding this issue.

Underline your method and outcome when handling biased colleagues.

What To Avoid When Answering This Question

Avoid speaking too negatively about your past experience when citing examples.

It’ll reflect a lack of respect.

Example Answer

When I face biased and culturally insensitive comments, I prefer responding to my colleague with facts and numbers. For instance, I’d mention companies are 33% more likely to be profitable when executives go out of their way for diverse representation.

Additionally, I try to let my colleagues understand other benefits of diversity in the workplace such as gaining new perspectives.

6. What do diversity and inclusion mean to you?

You wouldn’t want to underestimate this seemingly simple question.

Your definition of diversity needs to align with the company you’re applying for.

Why This Question Is Asked

It gives diversity interviewers a chance at gaining your perspective on diversity and why it matters to you.

What to Focus on When Answering This Question

Focus on your understanding of diversity from the past experiences you’ve been through.

Make sure to mention if your idea of diversity has shifted and why.

That way, interviewers can interpret that you’re versatile and open to new ideas.

What To Avoid When Answering This Question

Avoid giving a generic answer with an unenthusiastic tone.

Since diversity will be your main scope, you need to display passion when answering this question and a solid flow of why the topic matters to you.

Example Answer

Diversity comprises different ideas, visions, and perspectives being accepted and fully acknowledged.

Inclusion to me means listening to every voice and fostering meaningful relations despite opposing ideas coming from different backgrounds.

These aspects in a workplace are critical when building strong communications and finding a common ground, which is pivotal to a company’s overall success.

7. Have you enrolled in any diversity training? If so, what did you learn?

Previous training experience in diversity is always a plus, especially to become more culturally competent.

Why This Question Is Asked

This question is usually asked to help interviewers get a better sense of your diversity knowledge.

It also makes you seem more determined to enhance your knowledge in the field.

What to Focus on When Answering This Question

If you have received the training, focus on the main curriculum points you’ve covered in the training.

Meanwhile, if you haven’t undergone diversity training, then express your willingness to learn in the future, or through work experience.

What To Avoid When Answering This Question

During the interview process, avoid one-word answers.

If you didn’t train, then explain your reasoning.

Example Answer

In my previous workplace, I undertook a cultural awareness webinar training. The training discussed topics such as empathy, mindfulness, tokenism, and microaggressions.

After the training, I created an employee resource diversity group to create open discussions regarding cultural awareness in the workplace to foster a safe space.

8. Talk about a time when you tried to make a colleague feel more comfortable in a group of different backgrounds.

Developing cultural sensitivity happens through years of experiences and multiple confrontations.

That being said, facing a minority in the workplace tests your sensitivity.

Why This Question Is Asked

Your employer may ask this question to know more about your past experiences.

The situational question helps them understand your approach to dealing with different backgrounds and specific minorities.

What to Focus on When Answering This Question

Try to focus on the positive aspects of your encounter with this colleague.

Discuss tactics that led you to develop a strong workplace relationship with that individual.

What To Avoid When Answering This Question

Do your best to remain culturally sensitive and avoid a saviorism complex in your discussion.

Example Answer

In my workplace, we had a colleague who was part of a racial minority. To make them feel more welcome, my colleagues and I included them in our work outings and events. We also allowed them to participate fully in group discussions to hear their perspective.

9.   How would you approach a situation where you need to discuss sensitive topics?

Cultural awareness plays a key role in diversity positions, especially when casting light on sensitive topics.

Why This Question Is Asked

Touchy topics like religion, sexual orientation, and race are bound to come up in a diversity interview.

This question is meant to target your understanding of cultural awareness and how you can deal with difficult situations.

What to Focus on When Answering This Question

Build from a solid framework, such as the one provided by MIT. This will give you a more professional outlook when answering the question.

What To Avoid When Answering This Question

Avoid cultural insensitivity as you build your points.

Don’t make baseless claims and focus on maintaining professionality.

Example Answer

Before discussing any sensitive topics with colleagues, I make sure to develop a solid research background. Apart from that, I approach these topics with a respectful attitude that validates the group in question.

10. How do you keep up to date with information regarding diversity and inclusion?

As a constantly evolving field, diversity has seen lots of developments.

This is why one of the main questions interviewers ask is about how you stay up to date on your knowledge.

Why This Question Is Asked

This question gives your interviewer answers about your willingness to learn and adapt to new changes in the diversity field.

Plus, it shows them whether or not you use reliable resources for your research.

What to Focus on When Answering This Question

Target book resources, journal articles, and reliable newsworthy content in your discussion.

Any legislative and governmental changes are also paramount and worth mentioning.

What To Avoid When Answering This Question

Avoid stating unreliable sources such as blog articles with no references.

Example Answer

I like to keep up to date with current trends through diverse resources such as books, journal articles, and legislative news.

I also believe in the power of social media when it comes to exploring diversity and inclusion trends.

Other Common Interview Questions You Could Be Asked

Besides the diversity-specific questions you’ll face, the interviewer may also ask you other, more general, questions.

What Motivates You to Do a Good Job?

This strength-based question is a top-asked question in job interviews.

Why This Question Is Asked

Apart from interviewers wanting to know what motivates you, they also want to know your overall vision when working at the company.

What to Focus on When Answering This Question

Try to keep your answer concise, where you focus on certain tasks that motivate your work such as sticking to deadlines.

Additionally, try to provide an overarching motivator as well such as overcoming challenges.

What To Avoid When Answering This Question

Avoid broad answers and don’t stray away from your field.

Since the interview is targeting diversity, align your answer with the topic.

Example Answer

I find that establishing meaningful and diverse connections motivates me to enhance my work practice.

Additionally, adhering to a deadline brings a sense of accomplishment.

Plus, overseeing challenges and managing them gives me more reasons to learn more and advance in my career.

What Is Your Greatest Weakness?

Asking about weaknesses has been a notoriously tricky question for several interviewees.

Should you deny a weakness you have or make one up?

Why This Question Is Asked

The interviewer likely wants to know the downsides of hiring you.

Some weaknesses can be deal-breakers, while others are workable.

Additionally, the interviewer wants to scope your honesty, willingness to learn, and self-awareness.

What to Focus on When Answering This Question

You don’t have to necessarily deny your weaknesses, but rather present them in a positive manner.

What To Avoid When Answering This Question

Avoid stating a weakness that will hold you back from completing your role’s tasks.

Example Answer

My greatest weakness is that I don’t have lots of years of experience, but I try not to let that hold me back.

I enjoy learning and sponging in new information regarding diversity and inclusion.

My knowledge mostly stems from my degree education, which I plan to fully apply in my position.

I also hope to learn from real-life encounters and confrontations to enhance my pool of knowledge.

What Are Your Strengths and Weaknesses?

Assessing a potential employee’s strengths and weaknesses provides a solid comparison during the hiring process.

Why This Question Is Asked

Interviewers want to see how self-aware you are of your strengths and weaknesses.

They also value the willingness to improve, in both aspects.

What to Focus on When Answering This Question

You’ll want to focus on the strengths and weaknesses that prove relevant to the position you’re applying for.

Since it’s diversity-related, you could point out your communication skills.

What To Avoid When Answering This Question

Avoid overestimating or underestimating your skills when answering this question.

Example Answer

Strength-wise, I enjoy collaborating with diverse backgrounds and engaging in debate-worthy discussions.

I have also developed cultural competence throughout my experience and look forward to upgrading my knowledge.

My weakness is that I often feel too critical of myself.

I’ve been working on this weakness and I’m currently developing fairer self-judgment.

Why Are You Leaving Your Current Job?

Whether you quit or got fired, there’s a winning answer to this common interview question.

Why This Question Is Asked

Leaving a position could come for various reasons such as pursuing a better opportunity or even location.

Your employer wants to know if you left on unfavorable or good terms.

What to Focus on When Answering This Question

Focus on the positive aspects of why you left your past workspace.

Phrase your answer that sounds opportunistic.

What To Avoid When Answering This Question

Avoid badmouthing your previous workplace.

It’ll make you seem disrespectful.

Example Answer

I am in search of a better opportunity to fully employ my skill set as well as gain new experiences in a new workspace.

What Interests You About This Position?

You’ve clicked “Apply Now” for a reason.

From benefits and an impressive income to high standards and values, there are loads of factors that made you click that button.

Why This Question Is Asked

The question is asked to know how well-versed you are regarding the job description.

Plus, it could help the human resources department when trying to pinpoint ways to gather certain recruits.

What to Focus on When Answering This Question

When asked this question, focus on the parts of the job description that reflect your skillset, characteristics, and work ethic.

Plus, make sure to tailor your answer to the company you’re applying for by discussing why you specifically applied for this organization.

What To Avoid When Answering This Question

Don’t give a broad answer and avoid focusing too much on the salary and benefit components of what interest you in the job.

Example Answer

Your company’s diversity values have stood out to me among several other organizations.

I find that your company’s vision aligns with what I hope to achieve in terms of inclusion and cultural awareness.

In regard to the role, I am research savvy and enjoy collaborating with diverse backgrounds.

Conflict resolution through structured debates is also one of my many interests.

I hope to become an asset in the company’s continuous growth.

Additional Tips for Diversity Interviews

Looking out for interview tips and tricks will put you one step closer to nailing that position.

How Do You Prepare for a Diversity Interview?

Preparation for a diversity interview involves referring back to your background knowledge to answer expected questions.

Remember to showcase authenticity to distinguish yourself from other candidates.

Additionally, highlight the importance of diversity and inclusion in your work ethic.

What Should You Wear to a Diversity Interview?

One part of your preparation involves wondering what to wear to an interview.

If the company abides by strict attire, then you can stick to formal wear.

Nowadays, most companies are inclined towards comfort, so smart casual attire can also work.

Make sure to keep your colors neutral as well.

How Should You Introduce Yourself in a Diversity Interview?

As you enter the reception area, introduce yourself by starting with your name and the scheduled time of the interview.

When meeting the hiring manager, greet them with a smile, maintain eye contact, and throw in an “It’s a pleasure to meet you.”

What Questions Should You Ask at the End of a Diversity Interview?

• What are the most common challenges candidates have faced in this position?
• Can you walk me through a typical day in this role?
• What management style do you utilize when working with a diverse background?

Frequently Asked Questions

Before proceeding to your interview, here are some additional questions worth looking back at.

Wrapping Up

Preparing yourself for diversity interview questions takes a lot of research and time.

It’ll be worth it in the end when you answer each question with confidence.

When thinking of answers, make sure to steer clear of expected or cliche answers to draw more attention to yourself.

Your foremost passion for diversity and inclusion should primarily be on your mind throughout the interview.