Implicit bias in the workplace

The implicit associations we harbor in our subconscious cause us to have feelings and attitudes about other people based on characteristics such as socioeconomic status, race, ethnicity, age, ability, and appearance. These associations develop throughout a lifetime, beginning at a very early age through exposure to direct and indirect messages. Cognitive overload, time pressure and stressful environments can often be catalysts for implicit bias. Studies have shown that rather than suppressing automatic negative or positive biases, a conscious acknowledgment of one’s own biases and efforts to refute those biases can have a positive impact.

In this workshop, we will define different types of implicit bias and give specific examples of how they show up in the workplace. We will focus on how they can impact supervisory evaluation, hiring practices and daily interactions with our teams. For each example, we will brainstorm how to interrupt our biases in order to create more equitable practices and an inclusive work environment for all.

You can come late or leave early, and have your camera on or off. The room will be open until 11:30 am for anyone would like to stay longer for more conversation.