Unveiling the Impact of Unconscious Bias in the Workplace: Empowering Change for a Fair and Inclusive Environment
Have you heard any of these comments in your workplace lately? "You're so emotional," "Oh, it's okay, you're a girl," or "Oh, you're good at writing minutes, aren't you?" These remarks reflect unconscious bias. But what exactly is unconscious bias, and why does it matter? Let's delve into this critical topic together.
Understanding Unconscious Bias:
Unconscious bias refers to learned attitudes and stereotypes residing in our subconscious that impact our thoughts and actions involuntarily. With over two hundred forms of bias, including gender, race, sexuality, mental health, and neurodiversity, we all harbor biases to some extent. Numerous studies, including Sheryl Sandberg's book "Lean In," shed light on the challenges women face due to gender bias in the workplace.
An eye-opening study mentioned in "Lean In" is the Heidi/Howard Study. Professors created a case study about successful entrepreneur Heidi Roizen, but with one alteration: they changed her name to Howard for a different group of readers. Surprisingly, the students perceived Howard as more likable and Heidi as selfish and less hireable, highlighting the bias against successful women.
Taking Action: Flip It to Test It:
To combat bias, it is crucial to embrace change within organizational culture. Kristen Pressner, global head of HR, discovered that men received pay raises more frequently than women in her organization, leading her to develop a powerful tool called "Flip it to test it!" This approach helps identify biases by flipping statements and evaluating the impact.
Here's how you can use it:
Concrete Examples of Bias:
Now, let's look at specific examples of throwaway comments and questions commonly encountered in the workplace. These remarks often accompany the excuse, "Oh, it was just a joke." However, when we flip these statements and add a male instead of female or woman, the difference becomes apparent:
Flip it to test it statement: "Talking to young men is an absolute minefield these days. You can't compliment them. You can't tell them to smile. You can't even ask them when they're planning on having kids. It's exhausting.”
or
“You know what, I even question if men can do a great job as a leader if he's a father at the same time."
By flipping the statements, we realize the bias embedded within it. This exercise demonstrates how bias can influence perceptions and treatment based on gender.
Reducing Bias: Deliberate Strategies for Success:
Addressing workplace biases requires deliberate strategies from all of us. We must learn to be heard, speak up, embrace discomfort, support others, and refuse to laugh along with biased remarks. While these actions may be challenging, as strong women leaders, we are built to tackle tough situations head-on.
Now, it's your turn. Which deliberate strategy will you focus on to reduce the impact of bias in your workplace? Share your thoughts and strategies in the comments below. Let's empower each other to create a more inclusive and bias-free work environment.
Remember, challenging bias is a collective effort. Together, we can foster a culture that celebrates diversity and empowers everyone to reach their full potential.
By flipping biases and using deliberate strategies, we can transform our workplaces into spaces of equality and opportunity into spaces of equality and opportunity.
What now?
Register below to get your FREE 'Get Your S@#t Together Course'. Join me as we delve into the critical aspects of prioritization, strengthening your self-talk, and the often overlooked strategy of celebrating success. With engaging videos and downloadable PDFs, you'll have the flexibility to work through the material at your own pace or worth with me as we move through the course. Get ready to embark on a transformative journey towards leadership and personal growth and success. Let's dive in together and make a positive impact.
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ABOUT THE AUTHOR
JO WISE
Master Certified Coach with the ICF (International Coach Federation) who is dedicated to elevating female leaders to new heights. A woman who lives life boldly, loves adventure, and finds joy in the simple things. She's a surfer, gardener, hiker, partner, and proud mum of one child and 3 chickens.
What Now
Register below to get your FREE 'Get Your S@#t Together Course'. Join me as we delve into the critical aspects of prioritization, strengthening your self-talk, and the often overlooked strategy of celebrating success. With engaging videos and downloadable PDFs, you'll have the flexibility to work through the material at your own pace or worth with me as we move through the course. Get ready to embark on a transformative journey towards leadership and personal growth and success. Let's dive in together and make a positive impact. Sign up now and let's get started!
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