We need to talk about the science behind implicit bias training

Implicit bias is a "low-value target" in the larger scheme of DEI

share this post

Who’s interested: Primary – DEI Team, CXOs and L&D, Secondary – Senior Leaders

Takeaway(s):
– Unconscious bias training is unlikely to have a meaningful impact on the attitudes and behaviors of employees
– A narrow focus on implicit bias training sidesteps the much larger–and more difficult–issue of conscious bias and ignores the type of systemic changes that will be necessary to drive DEI results
– Eliminating bias will not be enough for companies to achieve their DEI goals; rather, managers will need to “explicitly hire a diverse base of employees, provide mentoring of future leaders, and seek out opportunities to enable more women and people of color to take on key roles”.
– Management must be willing to make unpopular decisions and communicate openly about the company’s DEI intent and priorities in a way that keeps employees focused and motivated.

ideascape view: Implicit bias is a “low-value target” in the larger scheme of DEI. To the extent that a management team has already committed to this type of training, using a decision science approach that helps managers recognize important assumptions and gaps in their own thinking may have more practical impact than approaches designed simply to “raise awareness” of association bias.

link to article

more from our team

The Importance of External Disclosure

The next evolution happening in the DEI space is a rise in external disclosure and it stems from increased pressure and advocacy to ensure transparency

let us help enhance your DEI team!

contact us to schedule a 30 minute call.

FREE guide to DEI in 2022 - 2023: strategic management themes

a compilation of observations and implications for DEI leaders