Unconscious bias: advice for leaders
As a leader, how can I tackle unconscious bias?
Consider the places in which bias could negatively impact someone and strategise to prevent them from happening.
For example, bias can creep in during hiring processes - so try to ensure that interview panels are diverse.
Speak to other leaders about how, as a group, you can prevent unconscious bias from impacting decision-making.
This is especially important when it comes to processes related to performance and progression - as our biases can have a real impact on people from the Global Majority's opportunities to be promoted.
Seek out opportunities to talk openly about the effects of unconscious bias with your team.
You can use the content in this resource and others as a guide. Show that you are committed to learning and creating an equitable environment - this could include joining employee networks or communities that focus on race.
Don't sit with the same colleagues every day, who may look like you or have the same background.
Make an effort to spend time with people from different racial, ethnic and cultural backgrounds to you - this will help to build cultural competence and lead to a better understanding of those who are different to you.
Don't be afraid to admit to when you make mistakes.
We can only deal with bias effectively if we can admit our mistakes. Acknowledgment can go a long way towards creating a more equitable environment for all.
