It’s important to not focus on the things a person may not be able to perform, and to focus on the abilities, skill sets and strengths they can bring to the role.
Here are some tips...
Be open and curious
We often avoid what we don’t understand or fear. By being curious and open to learning about differences you are able to become comfortable and make better informed decisions.
Check others
Once you have a good understanding and can recognise bias, you can commit to helping others improve their awareness by having respectful conversations when potential unconscious bias is observed in others.
Be mindful
When we are stressed and overwhelmed we have a tendency to revert to decisions or ways of doing things that feel easy and familiar. By practicing mindfulness and reducing stress, you are less likely to make biased decisions.
Be empathetic
Often we ‘listen to respond’ instead of ‘listening to understand’. When we listen to respond we are forming our response as the other person is talking, which prevents us from taking in all of the information. Listening to understand what is said and what may be unsaid can help us to empathise with others.
Make slower decisions
Consider the reasons behind your thoughts and feelings about an individual or situation, and ensure you have taken into account all available information before making your final decision.
Involve others
We don’t know our own unconscious biases. If we did, they wouldn’t be unconscious. That means it can be tricky to pick up on. It’s best to involve other people who might have a different background or view to yours. Discuss your thoughts around a decision with them. If you are challenged on your point of view or logic, you can then reflect on how you formed that view, whether any assumptions were made and what bias might be informing any assumptions.
Be aware
We are all human with a tendency to gravitate to the familiar and comfortable. Just because we name a bias doesn’t mean it will disappear. If you become aware of a bias you have, you can then challenge it and be conscious of it in future situations. By being aware of your own bias you can start to reduce the reliance on personal judgement, stereotypes and assumptions.