Unconscious bias: thinking without thinking

• Published in: Human resource management international digest 2018-10, Vol.26 (6), p.14-17
• Main Authors: Oberai, Himani, Anand, Ila Mehrotra
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Bias; Corporate culture; Decision making; Human resource management; Multiculturalism & pluralism; Workplace diversity
• ISSN: 0967-0734; 1758-7166
• DOI: 10.1108/HRMID-05-2018-0102

Purpose Unconscious biases are often ignored in organizations; thus, it becomes more important to identify them so that we can build strong and competent organizations. In present dynamic and competitive business situations, you need to be well aware about those concerns of the organizations where these biases exist. Design/methodology/approach This paper identifies various types of unconscious biases prevailing at workplace. It also identifies different strategies which can be used to avoid them so that we can gain a competitive edge over others in market. Findings Unconscious biases are a fact of life; no one can deny them. Thus, it is important to identify them so that they can be eliminated, and our businesses can avoid their detrimental effects. Research limitations/implications Unconscious biases narrow down the pool of people in an organization and ultimately destabilize an organization’s base. Practical implications Unconscious biases narrow down the pool of people in the organization and ultimately destabilize an organization’s base. Originality/value This paper can help managers and executives to highlight the areas where these biases lie so that they can be removed easily.