Did you know that most people hold implicit biases against marginalized groups?
These biases often aren’t intentional. Instead, they stem from living in a society that portrays people in unfavorable ways. Experts across a wide range of fields agree that everyone has these biases. Even people who are from marginalized groups
But allowing biases to go unchecked can have dangerous consequences. If people aren’t aware of their biases, they can end up treating people in discriminatory ways without even realizing it.
Below, we’ll get into 5 common unconscious bias examples in the workplace. Keep reading to make your business a welcoming place for all!
1. Dismissing Candidates with Certain Names
One of the biggest workplace challenges comes for marginalized groups comes into play before they even get the job. When people write their resumes, they include their names near the top of the page.
Studies have shown that people with masculine, white-sounding names on their resumes are more likely to get an interview. People with white-sounding names get 1 interview for every 10 resumes they send. Candidates with black-sounding names get 1 interview for every 15 resumes.
When you look over resumes, you should ask yourself why you disregard a resume. Dismiss candidates only when they don’t meet the requirements.
2. Ageism
People who are older have a harder time finding employment. Employers often assume older people won’t be able to use technology or might be slower workers.
This isn’t necessarily true. In fact, most older people remain alert and active well into old age. If the employee has proven they can do the job, you should consider them for employment. Once they’re working, you should treat them the same way you treat your other workers.
3. Not Providing Accommodations
Under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), employers have to provide “reasonable accommodations” for people who have disabilities. This means that businesses should provide accommodations that allow employees with disabilities to work well.
The only exception to this requirement is when the business is unable to accommodate it.
4. Not Allowing Service Animals
People who use service animals often cannot spend the whole day without their pets. These animals get trained to help their handlers identify when they’re going to have a medical issue and can get them help when needed.
So, an employer who doesn’t allow service animals is displaying one of the unconscious bias examples. If you don’t allow people to bring their pets to work, you can make it clear that service animals are the only exceptions. You can also require the animal to be well-behaved.
5. Not Hiring Women for Traditionally Masculine Roles
Implicit bias even influences which roles women get hired to do. For instance, in fields that were traditionally considered “men’s work,” qualified women struggle to get hired.
To make sure you aren’t discriminating against women at your workplace, consider candidates based on their qualifications. You should define the candidate you’re looking for ahead of time so you can measure job seekers against those standards.
Learn more about dealing with unconscious bias at rishagrant.com!
Ready to Handle Unconscious Bias Examples?
Knowing these unconscious bias examples will help you take preventive measures in your company. That way, a diverse group of people can work and thrive at your business!
In addition to addressing your own implicit bias, you should encourage your employees to do the same. Offer diversity training sessions to them, where they can learn about the discrimination others face.
Want more articles like this? Check out the rest of this website today!