Unconscious bias impacts us all – whether we know it or not . Clare Stephens , VP of Diversity , Equity & Inclusion at NTT DATA , discusses the issue in depth
ESG
UNCONSCIOUS BIAS : A SILENT THREAT TO WORKPLACE
DIVERSITY
Unconscious bias impacts us all – whether we know it or not . Clare Stephens , VP of Diversity , Equity & Inclusion at NTT DATA , discusses the issue in depth
WRITTEN BY : LUCY BUCHHOLZ
To one degree or another , we all have preconceived ideas and prejudices against certain social and identity groups . These are often hidden in our unconscious , yet they come out in our speech , actions and behaviours and are formally known as unconscious bias or implicit bias .
As the VP of Diversity , Equity & Inclusion at NTT DATA , Clare Stephens describes these biases as “ long-held , subconscious prejudice or stereotypes ” that are focused on specific groups of people , often centred on race , gender , age , ethnicity , or other characteristics . “ If left unchecked , these biases can lead to unintended discrimination and unfairness in various aspects of business life : Including hiring , evaluations , and career opportunities ,” Stephens says . “ Recognising and addressing unconscious bias is crucial to creating inclusive environments and promoting diversity and equity in the workplace .
78 October 2023