Five Workplace Biases To Break In 2022

What workplace biases are leaders taking aim at this year? We asked industry leaders what biases they are striving to eliminate for greater inclusion in 2022

Bias, both unconscious and conscious, has often been a stubborn deterrent to progress in the space of diversity, equity and inclusion. Even if people do not realise it, bias affects people management decisions in the workplace, from recruitment to promotion, from compensation to recognition. Some are favoured because of bias; others, less fortunate, are discriminated against.

Despite multiple efforts in this direction, workplaces continue experiencing both subtle and significant hindrances to becoming truly diverse, equitable and inclusive. It is important for employees and leaders alike to recognise their own internal biases in order to expand their personal growth in a professional environment. This is not just about progressing in a workplace setting; it's about breaking mental barriers and challenging your own personal views to become a better person.

This month, People Matters asked industry leaders about the workplace biases they want to break in 2022. Here are some of the false beliefs and resulting biases that they flagged out.

False belief that women are less productive

Many workplaces are plagued by the false belief that women will not be able to fully contribute or be productive once they have children. Even when this belief is not consciously acted upon, it creates a bias against women that has severe negative impacts on women's promotions, compensation, and even new opportunities. It holds them back from advancing into leadership positions, sometimes across entire industries.