Is this an appropriate thing to say in an interview by the employer?

Question

Well normally in a job interview they will ask how well you get along with people right? During an interview I was told by a really big healthcare company that I'll need to be able to get along with people of different ages and races. I've never been in an interview where they bring up race. I know I don't think about race when I'm applying for a job. The interviewers were of different race than I am.

Answer 1

I think it is  a little in appropriate.... I had a phone interview with a doctor and after he complimented me by saying that I was mature for my age, articulate, and very professional asked if I would have any problems with working with some one of color because they have a lot of african american patients. I told him no because I was AFRICAN AMERICAN! he seemed so surprised. I couldn't understand why he felt the need to warn me about working with black people! He never called back to set up an interview! I wonder  why

Answer 2

I do not think that it was the right thing to say

Answer 3

I think that all things that could be a problem should be addressed. I don't see why it would be a problem for them to address something they have had issues with. If you aren't happy with the interview then I wouldn't work for them.

Answer 4

They may have phrased it awkwardly, but they were probably trying to say that the position required the ability to deal with diversity.  The ability to work with diverse people is a great job skill that not everyone may have.  

No need to freak out, just say that yes, you can deal with diversity!

Answer 5

hmmmm no it doesn't seem relevant, but I suppose if they openly saw you bristle at the question, they might take that as racism and not want to start anything in their company.  hmm - that is a good question.  I don't think about race during anything either but we know lots of people do.  I agree -that was not an appropriate question. Calling attention to race makes it an issue and it should never be.