Do you think you’re not getting calls back from jobs because of the color of your skin, race, or hair texture? Well, that may not be the case. I know it sounds weird, but a recent study claims that having an ethnic name may cause you a job opportunity.
“According to a study for the National Bureau of Economics, resumes and applications with names more commonly given to white Americans were 50 percent more likely to be contacted for job interviews than those applicants with names more associated with black Americans.”via The Grio
The study also mentioned that employers download applications from those with more common white names such as Molly or Daniel than typical black name such as Maesha or Darius. This study did not prove that fewer blacks were hired because of their color of skin, but it showed that names are indicative of social background.
I always thought having a unique name set you apart but in this case being unique can leave you broke. It's not race but names that are keeping people from getting jobs. It seems that there is always something getting in the way of being successful.
According to the article there are 5 things you can do to guarantee a job. Find out what they are, after the jump.
1. Change your name (temporarily). If you have a name more commonly found in our community, consider adapting your name or using a middle name that is less telling of your cultural background for your job search campaign.
2. Never put your address on your resume. In this digital age, there's no reason to disclose your address. Your email and phone number are enough for employers to contact you.
3. Conquering phone interviews. Can people discriminate against you based on if you "sound black?" Absolutely. It's not about sounding "black" or "white," it is a matter of communicating clearly and articulately so that people can not linguistically profile you.
4. Energy. An interview, whether it be on the phone or face-to-face, is a performance. So bring your A-game. Pump yourself up mentally, get excited, be happy and smile especially if you are on the phone - it will amplify your voice and indicate confidence.
5. Stand out from the crowd of candidates. Bring a portfolio or a sample of a previous project or a plan of action showing that you've already thought about the job and how you might tackle upcoming projects. Show your creativity.
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