Unconscious Bias in the Workplace: What Is It and How Can You Change It

Did you know that your brain is subconsciously forming mini opinions all the time about people and situations? This is called unconscious bias and it can silently influence your decisions and interactions in the workplace.

Unconscious bias (sometimes called ‘implicit bias’) refers to the automatic and unintentional judgments we make about others based on characteristics such as gender, age, race and more. According to a 2019 study, more than 60 percent of people reported a presence of unconscious bias in the workplace. Therefore, understanding and addressing this phenomenon is critical for making changes and fostering an inclusive work environment.

Often operating beneath the surface of our conscious awareness, unconscious bias in the workplace can manifest in subtle ways. It is important to differentiate here between unconscious bias and explicit discrimination. While explicit discrimination is overt and intentional, unconscious bias is a result of our brains processing information quickly, leading to unintentional prejudices.

Psychological factors, such as cognitive shortcuts and societal influences, contribute to the formation of implicit biases. The impacts of these unconscious biases on workplace dynamics and culture can be profound, affecting hiring decisions, performance evaluations, and overall employee satisfaction.

Name Bias

Name bias involves making judgments about individuals based on their names, often influenced by cultural or racial stereotypes. 

Anchor Bias

Anchor bias occurs when individuals rely too heavily on the first piece of information encountered (i.e. the "anchor") and it affects their decisions. 

Halo Effect

A halo effect is when the positive impressions of an individual in one area can influence opinions in other areas. 

Horns Effect

Conversely, the horns effect involves letting one negative trait overshadow an individual's overall evaluation. The horns effect bias can lead to unfair judgments and hinder professional development. 

Confirmation Bias

Confirmation bias involves seeking or interpreting information in a way that confirms pre-existing beliefs. In the workplace, confirmation bias can affect decision-making processes and lack of opportunities for qualified individuals.

Awareness and Education

Training programs that raise awareness about unconscious bias can empower employees to recognize and challenge their own biases. For example, workshops and online courses can provide valuable insights and tools for addressing unconscious biases in the workplace.

Creating a Culture of Inclusivity

Establishing Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) and publicly committing to diversity and inclusion goals can create a culture that values differences. In addition to addressing unconscious bias in the workplace, this promotes a sense of belonging and fosters collaboration among employees from diverse backgrounds.

Encouraging Diverse Perspectives

Actively seeking input from employees with different viewpoints enhances creativity and problem-solving. Leaders should encourage open communication and ensure that diverse voices are heard and valued to create inclusive workspaces.

Transparency in Decision-Making

Providing transparency in decision-making processes helps build trust amongst employees. When individuals understand the criteria and rationale behind decisions, it mitigates the perception of bias and fosters a fair and equitable workplace.

Technology and Tools

Leveraging technology, such as AI or other analytic tools, can help identify and mitigate unconscious bias in various HR processes. Technology like this can analyze data objectively, reducing the impact of unconscious biases in hiring, promotion, and performance evaluation.

“In a bias-free workplace, diversity isn't just embraced; it's a catalyst for information, a driver of excellence, and the cornerstone of lasting success”

Improved Employee Morale and Productivity

An inclusive workplace fosters positive team dynamics, boosts morale, and increases overall job satisfaction. This lets employees feel valued for their contributions and can lead to increased productivity and a stronger sense of team commitment.

Enhanced Creativity and Innovation

Diverse perspectives bring a richness of ideas and approaches and can help tackle unconscious bias in the workplace. Teams with members from varied backgrounds and/or different viewpoints are more likely to generate innovative solutions and adapt to changing environments.

Strengthened Employer Brand

A diverse workforce enhances the company's reputation, making it an attractive and progressive employer to a wider scope of communities. Many prospective employees are now looking for companies committed to diversity and inclusion and top talent are now gravitating to these organizations.

Positive Organizational Culture

A bias-free workplace cultivates a positive culture where employees feel supported, respected, and engaged. This positive environment contributes to a sense of pride and loyalty amongst team members and works to address both conscious and unconscious biases in the workplace,

Long-term Organizational Success

Companies that prioritize a bias-free workplace are better equipped to navigate challenges, adapt to market changes, and thrive in the long run. This commitment to workplace diversity  provides a solid foundation for sustained success.

Recognizing and addressing unconscious bias in the workplace is not just an HR buzzword, it is a strategic necessity for companies aiming for long-term success. By understanding the various types of unconscious bias and implementing strategies to tackle them, organizations can create a workplace that is inclusive, innovative, and conducive to the personal and professional growth of its employees.

If you’re looking for more tools and tips on counteracting unconscious bias and employee well-being, then CakeResume is a reliable and great resource.

— Originally Written by Michael Reid —