ESG
“AT NTT DATA , WE WANT TO PROMOTE A RECRUITMENT PROCESS THAT IS BOTH INCLUSIVE AND ACCESSIBLE ”
CLARE STEPHENS VP OF DIVERSITY , EQUITY & INCLUSION , NTT DATA
“ Sitting on the leadership team at NTT DATA , part of my role is to examine and identify the systemic effects and causes of unconscious bias . By evaluating the reasoning behind business decisions , we can examine the factors that went into them and learn to what extent unconscious bias may have affected the outcome .”
With Stephens , we explore why unconscious bias needs to be addressed , as well as how it impacts various different aspects of a business . diversity and inclusion of employees , while encouraging better decision-making , improved collaboration and reduced conflict . Addressing unconscious bias also aligns with ethical and legal obligations and fosters a harmonious work culture .
“ A keen awareness of and willingness to tackle unconscious bias is vital for organisations to create a diverse and inclusive work environment ,” says Stephens . “ Digging down into all policies , processes and procedures to ensure that we operate within an equitable framework can help to unearth bias . Typically , bias discovered in hiring decisions , performance reviews , and rewards – for example – will stem from unintended and repeated bias . It ’ s only when we raise awareness of these biases that we can put measures in place to remove them .
Unconscious bias : It ’ s impact on company culture A Deloitte survey of 3,000 individuals explored unconscious bias in the workplace , finding that 39 % of employees shared that they experience it at least once a month , regarding it as “ frequent ”.
Of these biases , 83 % of respondents said that they were subtle , indirect or microaggressions , with 68 % reporting they have a negative impact on productivity .
Yet promoting the awareness of unconscious bias in the workplace is vital , as it ensures fair treatment and the sustainabilitymag . com 81