Minority job seekers often face discrimination and bias in the hiring process. To overcome these barriers, some job seekers choose to “whiten” their resumes, or present themselves in a more traditionally white and Anglo-Saxon manner, in an effort to increase their chances of getting hired.
Studies have shown that “whitening” resumes can lead to more job interviews for minority candidates. This can be attributed to unconscious biases that persist in many hiring processes. Hiring managers may associate certain names, cultural backgrounds, and educational experiences with lower qualifications and abilities, which can result in fewer opportunities for minority candidates.
So, what exactly does it mean to “whiten” a resume? Here are a few examples of what job seekers might do to make their resumes seem more “white”:
Changing their name: Job seekers may choose to use a more “American” sounding name, rather than their given name, in an effort to avoid being immediately identified as a minority.
Hiding cultural affiliations: Minority job seekers may choose to hide any cultural affiliations, such as religious or ethnic organizations, in an effort to avoid being immediately identified as a minority.
Omitting foreign education or experience: Job seekers may choose to omit any foreign education or experience, or downplay their cultural background, in an effort to appear more “American.”
Modifying language: Job seekers may choose to modify the language on their resumes, avoiding cultural or ethnic references, in an effort to appear more neutral.
While “whitening” resumes may seem like a quick solution, it is not a long-term solution for addressing the root causes of discrimination and bias in the hiring process. Instead, it is important for companies to actively work towards creating more inclusive and equitable hiring practices. This can include unconscious bias training, diversity and inclusion initiatives, and actively seeking out diverse candidates.
As a job seeker, it is important to remember that you have the right to present yourself in a way that accurately reflects your skills, experiences, and background. By highlighting your strengths and focusing on the value you can bring to a company, you can increase your chances of landing a job while also staying true to yourself.
It’s important to remember that everyone deserves equal opportunities and fair treatment in the job search process, regardless of their race, ethnicity, or background. By promoting diversity and inclusion in the workplace, companies can create a more equitable and just society for all.
Diversity, Equity & Inclusion FashionCareerFair
The StyleCareers.com DE&I FashionCareerFair will cater to experienced, home office talent who place a high value on Diversity, Equity and Inclusion.
In hosting this event, our goal is to facilitate better representation of BIPOC and LGBTQ+ professionals at the home office level of fashion brands and retailers; more designers, more tech designers, more buyers, more account executives, etc…
Face-to-Face Interviews, One Day Only
Join us on Thursday, February 23rd and speak directly with recruiters from brands and retailers that value Diversity, Equity and Inclusion.
This is an online event. Live interviews will be conducted via webcam with fashion industry recruiters from the comfort of your own home!
