Least common race/ethnicity in banking?

Hey everyone, So I've been reaching out to professionals in the industry/ networking via cold email, linkedin, etc. I've noticed that my race is not too common in the finance industry and is actually pretty rare. I've recently google searched a few investment funds / boutique banks in my area and have found that a few of the directors and analysts share the same descent as me. I know it's important to reach out to alumni from your school because thats obviously a key "similarity" or something you can both relate too. But... since they did not attend my school, should I mention in my cold emails that were of the same nationality?
As I'm writing this, I already have the feeling that it would be weird but being that it seems to be only a few [insert nationality] in the industry, maybe they might appreciate it?

33 Comments
 

Definitely don't mention it that outright unless there is a shared connection (i.e. same church/mosque/temple, etc.). That being said it's possible that they'll see your name/picture on linkedin which could maybe help.

 

Where do you see middle eastern falling? On most official documents they’re considered Caucasian or white. Should middle eastern people apply for diversity programmes or would that be considered unethical?

 

I never said I was a minority.... The purpose of this post was to state I made an observation that there are few Portuguese people in banking and should I mention my background in my cl when emailing other Portuguese directors. I haven't met any welsh people in banking either. If you read my posts, I've never said that I was a minority...

 

Maybe when emailing... but I would say only if you are fluent and are very connected to the country. Don't include in cover letter though because when an HR person looks at it they might have a wtf moment since it won't feel relevant to them. Honestly better to bring up in a phone conversation with people. Will feel more natural - might look a bit stalkery if you are bringin up your shared heritage in a cold email.

 

Wall Street is extremely diverse -- ambition, initiative, and the competitive spirit is not unique to any race

What concert costs 45 cents? 50 Cent feat. Nickelback.
 

Is it more difficult to fit in if you're from an underrepresented culture in your bank/group? Curious as to how this plays out for the few minority/diversity summer interns, i.e. ever felt excluded?

 

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