Workplace bias takes many forms, but the result is always the same: parts of the workforce are unfairly excluded from experiences and opportunities for which they are qualified.
The most common type of bias in the workplace is implicit, or unconscious. It operates at a level below more obvious, conscious prejudice, and affects our decisions in a much more subtle way.
Confronting this type of bias requires a careful approach, because most people are not aware of it. Recognizing that the bias exists is the key to reducing its influence. After all, we cannot manage or change what we are not aware of.
There is a long list of biases in the workplace ranging from gender to age to personality, title, marital status, disabilities, sexual orientation, weight and the list goes on.
These biases bring irrelevant factors into the decision-making process and can play a role in personal assessments of candidates and employees while influencing the decision to hire, fire and promote in the workplace.
While these influences may be unintentional, it does not change the fact that they are fundamentally unfair.
You can help reduce gender bias in your organization by taking a closer look at your practices to see if there are areas where you can identify and correct it.
Organizations can get started with the AICPA's PCPS Diversity & Inclusion Toolkit, which is a guide to help benchmark, measure and aid your progress in building an inclusive culture.