We all like to think we make fair and rational decisions at work.
But how much do we actually know about what influences those decisions?
In this episode of Speaking of Meaning, I’m joined again by Howard J. Ross to talk about something that affects all of us: everyday bias.
We talk about how bias shows up in hiring, promotions, performance reviews, first impressions, and those moments when we say, “I just had a gut feeling about them.”
Howard explains why bias isn't something that makes us bad people. It's a normal part of how our brains work. The challenge is recognizing when it leads us to make decisions that aren't fair or effective.
We also talk about:
• Why your “gut feeling” can be misleading• How first impressions spread through organizations• Bias in hiring and promotion decisions• Why slowing down can lead to better decisions• How psychological safety makes it easier to challenge our assumptions• Why feedback is more effective than blame and shame• How organizations can build structures that reduce bias• Why diversity numbers alone aren't enough• The connection between bias, belonging, and workplace culture• How AI and technology can amplify existing bias
One of the things I really appreciated about this conversation is Howard's approach to bias. Instead of blaming or demonizing people, he focuses on understanding how bias works and creating better ways of making decisions.
Because the goal isn't to become completely “unbiased.”
It's to make it harder for our biases to make important decisions for us.
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Speaking of Meaning is about communication, leadership, trust, workplace culture, belonging, and the psychology behind how we work with other people.
📺 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Speakingofmeaning🌐 Website: https://www.speakingofmeaning.com
I also work with organizations as a keynote speaker and trainer on communication, leadership, trust, workplace culture, psychological safety, unconscious bias, and belonging.
If you'd like to have me speak or train your organization, you can find more information on my website.
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— Ibrahim
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