Why is it harder for someone with an "urban" name to get an interview, than it is for an "american" name

Question

Ex) Studies have shown that employers will overlook someone with an "urban" name vs. a "typical american" name for specific positions. "Amy got an interview right away. LaQuisha had more experience, but got overlooked for the same position.

Answer 1

Interviews are never easy, but I doubt being turned down has to do with names... there are thousands of other reasons, many of them assumed to be known by the general public. "ASSUMED" being the operative word.

For example, there is a certain age group of candidates these days that don't realize you can't dress causally for an interview, and land the job. People who apply for let's say, a real estate job, looking like they just left a construction site, will be turned down. The interviewer WON'T SAY "'look at you! You dress like a slob..." but hell be thinking it. First impressions can make or break a candidate's chances.

Quite frankly, most candidates being interviewed lose out because they show up unprepared. Interviewers look for people who are personable, out going, positive thinkers, and are well recommended by past employers.

Answer 2

These days having a minority name--or actually being a minority candidate--can help you get an interview since companies are feeling forced to be more diverse. If a minority candidate actually stands out, or is even comparable with the other candidates, he/she will have a very easy time getting interviews and job offers in many businesses.

Answer 3

People are judgmental by nature no matter what country you go to, that's just the way it is. It's not right, but unfortunately that is the world we live in.

Is there anything you can do about this?
Yes, do your kid a favor and don't name her LaQuisha.

Answer 4

I don't know. You should write a thesis about this