Diversity and Communication: Blog Assignment 6

In Job Hunt College Degree Can’t Close Racial Gap

By MICHAEL LUO

Published: November 30, 2009

Johnny R. Williams, 30, would appear to be an unlikely person to have to fret about the impact of race on his job search, with companies like JPMorgan Chase and an M.B.A. from the University of Chicago on his résumé.

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http://www.nytimes.com/2009/12/01/us/01race.html?_r=1

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I think it is unfortunate that many job seeking African Americans (and other minorities) feel they must hide something that is such a huge part of their identities. What I believe is the most frustrating part of this conversation and debate is that, regardless of intentions, bias does still exist. But then the question for me becomes, how legitimate is the argument for “cultural fit,” as the article puts it? Obviously, similar people are naturally drawn to each other, and thus a corporate culture does evolve. And it could be that this designated corporate culture does allow the business to function as it always has. And in some industries, perhaps that cohesiveness and commonality is highly valued and a large part of the company's success. But could they not also be successful AND diverse?

So then a chicken and the egg scenario presents itself. Are these applicants not selected because they do not "fit" or do they not "fit" because diverse applicants are not selected, thus maintaining the "corporate culture"? When will the time come for the perspective to change to focus on the similarities, rather than focusing on the differences of race, gender, or background? I believe it all boils back down to the fear of change.

Fear of upsetting the traditional corporate culture, even in just a small way, could additionally be magnified in this time of economic recession. In times of stress, the instinct is to preserve oneself, rather than risk losing what is already intact.