With You We Got a Twofer: Challenging the Affirmative Action Hire Stereotype

Abstract

Kendra smiled when she saw the header, Party Time! on an e-mail from her team leader, Joe. He was the enthusiastic head of their sales team in the tech division, and she knew that her sales had contributed to the celebratory environment. When she was hired by the general sales manager, Ed, a little over a month ago, he acknowledged that she would help to diversify their group—she was one of only two women, the only African American, and the only person of color in the tech sales division of their company. Ed had also expressed how excited he was to have someone with her impressive expertise and experience on his team, and so it had taken Kendra by surprise when one day after lunch, Jana (the other female tech salesperson) asked, “Did you hear that Joe has been referring to you as a ‘twofer’?”

“What the heck does that mean?” asked Kendra.

“Well, he said it was because Ed could count you in two categories of diversity—both female and African American,” said Jana. “You know, the other person they brought in to interview for your job in tech sales was one of Joe’s college buddies. I’m sure he was disappointed he wouldn’t have another good ole boy working here. Me personally, I’m glad you’re here. I can’t believe it took 5 years for them to hire another woman.”