Please play this name game with me and let me know how you got on.
I have sent out my CV and cover letters more than 50 times in the last few weeks. In every single case, I have received polite, but quick replies. They apologise because they have more suitable candidates. Now, I have a degree in Economics, another in law, qualified as an accountant over 12 years ago and had been lucky enough to work in every aspect of finance, inluding as a finance controller in a large outsourcing company, so I have over 20 years UK experience, but still can bag an interview with the help of the top accountancy recruitment agencies. I dont think I am alone.
One of my friends have suddenly changed his name to XXXX West, I disagree with what he has done, but I understand the fraustration of a man who makes his living through non facial contacts with his customers. Is he doing well?, you bet. So just for fun, I want you to send out CV's, but change your names and see if you get a better response. If you have an English name, try an African one and see if you suddenly have a furry of rejection. In that case, you can start to live in my world.
Be rest assured, like Barack Obama, I will not be changing my name for anybody. My name is an integral part of my DNA, well, at least for now.
Hello,
I have three long Yoruba names and those names are also my Christian names, I was baptised with them.
In the case of my CV, whilst my full firstname is Akinola, I am addressed as Akin, so the top line has Akin Akintayo in bold typeface and less prominently my 3 tongue-twisting names below that.
There are many who have seen those names and thought I am Japanese until they see the Nigerian connection.
But as you say, the name is part of your DNA, it was interesting to read in the Economist the suggestion that Obama change his name to O'Bama to appear more Irish and appeal to votes in Illinois when he was running for the Senate.
If my name counts me out, I am probably better off not working amongst such people.
Regards,
Akin