Identifying and addressing unconscious bias in the workplace is an important part of creating a more accepting and inclusive company culture where everyone can thrive.
Keep reading to learn how to handle and work through biases effectively.
What is unconscious bias?
Unconscious bias is when we unknowingly and automatically form judgments or make decisions based on our personal background, experiences, and assumptions, rather than on impartial, objective information.
These deeply ingrained beliefs act as mental shortcuts, influencing our thoughts and actions without our conscious awareness, and can lead to unfair treatment or missed opportunities, particularly for marginalised groups.
Some examples are assuming a nurse is female based on stereotyping, also a boss is hiring someone and favouring a candidate who reminds them of themselves.
How do you deal with unconscious bias in the workplace?
Firstly, individually you must acknowledge its existence and challenge it through self-awareness and behavioural changes by carrying out the following: –
- Recognise it’s there to overcome it.
- Challenge any stereotyping.
- Practice active listening by close attention and allow it to develop so that an equal chance can be heard.
- To gain new perspectives widen your social circle, talk to people from different groups, backgrounds and cultures.
- Slow down the decision and don’t rely on gut instincts only consider evidence and justify what you have seen.
Within organisations and workplace practical strategy measures could be: –
- Provide training.
- Blind recruitment (remove identifying information) and use monitoring forms/survey.
- Promote open conversations where people feel comfortable to speak.
- Establish a support system, such as groups and receive guidance.
- The 5’ Rs for reducing Unconscious Bias:
- Reflection
- Respect
- Regard
- Relevance
- Resiliency
The importance of respect when addressing bias
Mutual respect is highly important in the workplace and is one of the main core values, without this we are in danger of the following: –
- Unfair treatment & exclusion
- Reduce morale and trust
- Limiting the diversity & opportunities for all
- Damage to the working environment, no teamwork, increased stress and high turnover of staff.
Addressing bias is a behavioural change, this will only happen when people feel safe and respected within the workplace.
The more receptive to feedback improves trust within the team will lead to more openness, learning & inclusive workforce.
How can WA Management help?
WA Management offer an online Unconscious Bias training course, beneficial for both employers and managers who are trying to improve diversity and inclusion in their workplace.
Code of Conduct and Communication Skills training courses are essential tools in promoting accessibility in the workplace. Make sure you don’t miss out on our 10% off deal on these courses, available until the end of October. Simply enter the code ‘access10’ at checkout to save!
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