The impact of name changes on job prospects and identity in employment

By Xavier Washington
May 28, 2024
6:20 pm

For many job seekers, finding employment is compounded by the fear of workplace discrimination. A recent survey highlighted a startling reality: one-fifth of job applicants have altered their names on resumes to avoid discrimination. This practice reflects a broader issue of identity and acceptance in the corporate world.

The struggle to fit in

Mukhtar Kadiri, a Nigerian-born graduate from Texas Tech University, faced significant hurdles in his job search due to his name and the requirement for visa sponsorship. Observing that his peers with English-sounding names were advancing more smoothly, Kadiri adopted the name “Mark” on his resume, which led to a job offer shortly after that. Despite the success, Kadiri grappled with feelings of inauthenticity and denying his roots.

The pressure to conform

The decision to change one’s name for job prospects is not uncommon. According to a survey by Greenhouse, 45% of those who altered their names did so to sound “less ethnic,” while others aimed to appear younger or of the opposite sex. This trend underscores the discrimination in hiring processes despite federal employment laws designed to protect applicants from such biases.

Embracing authenticity

Kadiri’s experience as “Mark” was short-lived. After a colleague addressed him by his real name and moved to the UAE, he reclaimed his identity as Mukhtar. The journey to self-acceptance was not easy, but Kadiri now embraces his heritage and identity, advocating for authenticity over conformity. His story is a powerful reminder of the importance of being true to oneself, even in systemic challenges.

In conclusion, changing one’s name to fit into the corporate landscape is a stark indicator of the work that remains to be done in creating inclusive and non-discriminatory workplaces. As individuals like Kadiri demonstrate, embracing one’s identity can be a profound source of empowerment and pride.