Unconscious bias (also known as implicit bias) refers to the assumptions, stereotypes, and attitudes that influence our thinking and decisions without us even realising it. These biases are shaped by societal and personal experiences, influencing how we perceive and interact with others. While biases are a natural part of being human, they can hinder creativity, innovation, and inclusivity in the workplace if left unchecked.
Why does unconscious bias happen?
Our brains process vast amounts of information daily, using shortcuts to categorise and simplify what we see. These mental shortcuts help us make quick decisions, but they’re also where bias can creep in. For example, someone’s gender, ethnicity, or profession might unconsciously influence our snap judgements about their abilities or potential.
Scientists and psychologists suggest that unconscious bias stems from a fundamental survival instinct. In early human history, recognising whether someone was part of your ‘group’ helped distinguish friend from foe, which was essential for survival. Today, while this instinct may still serve a purpose in quickly processing information, it also introduces prejudice and stereotyping that can impact our workplaces.
The impact of bias in the workplace
Biases can shape everything from recruitment decisions to team dynamics. For instance, if everyone in a team shares similar backgrounds and experiences, innovation may be stifled. Collaborating with people who don’t look, think, or act like us can push us to think more critically and creatively, but bias often makes us gravitate towards those who feel familiar.
Bias can also reinforce ‘group think,’ where individuals, in order to fit in, conform to dominant opinions within a team rather than offering alternative perspectives. This leads to a loss of diversity in thought, which is essential for problem-solving and innovation. Leaders who fail to recognise and address their own biases risk unintentionally creating environments where certain groups or perspectives are excluded.
Actions to manage unconscious bias
While it’s impossible to eliminate bias entirely, leaders can take deliberate steps to manage it and create more inclusive workplaces. Here are three key actions to consider:
- Increase self-awareness Take the time to reflect on your own beliefs and biases. Tools like Harvard’s Implicit Association Test can help identify areas where unconscious bias might be at play. Ask yourself questions such as:
- What assumptions am I making about people in my team?
- Do my decisions align with evidence, or are they shaped by gut reactions? Understanding your own biases is the first step in addressing them.
- Slow down decision-making Quick decisions are more likely to be influenced by unconscious bias. Pause before making choices, especially in high-pressure situations. For example, when assigning a project, use clear, objective criteria rather than relying on instinct. Take time to question assumptions and consider alternative viewpoints to ensure fair and balanced decisions.
- Create a culture of accountability Encourage open dialogue about bias within your team. Make it acceptable to call out biased behaviours (including your own) and provide constructive feedback. Educate your team about different types of bias and how they manifest in workplace processes like recruitment or appraisals. By enabling accountability, you give people permission to make changes to build a dynamic and safe culture that values diversity and inclusion.
In summary
Unconscious bias is a reality of human nature, but it doesn’t have to limit your leadership or your team’s success. By increasing awareness, slowing down decision-making, and creating an inclusive culture, you can reduce the impact of bias and unlock the potential of diverse perspectives. Taking these steps will not only strengthen your leadership but also strengthen a team environment where creativity and innovation thrive.
Next steps
Managing unconscious bias is just one bitesized learning within my leadership methodology – the Lucidity Success System. You can access the entire Lucidity Success System as well as the Lucidity Leadership Library when you join my membership community – the Lucidity Network.
One type of bias that can trip us up and impact our confidence is negativity bias – hear what Juliet Corbett and I have to say about it in this Quiet Leadership Revolution podcast episode.