This year’s International Women’s Day theme is #BreakTheBias. Many organizations are making progress with their DEI initiatives, but gender bias – both conscious and unconscious – continues to impact women’s experiences in the workplace and inhibit their ability to progress and thrive in their careers. There is still plenty of work to be done.
What can you do as a leader to #BreakTheBias women face in your organization? Here are a few ideas to get you started:
- Not all anti-bias training is created equal. Make sure your training considers intersectionality and includes practical advice that is relevant to your context.
- Bias can be most damaging during hiring and performance evaluation. Refresh decision-makers on how to avoid unconscious bias before those processes begin.
- If you see something, say something. Women, especially women of colour, are much more likely to face negative consequences for speaking up against bias. Use your position to speak up for those who may feel as though they can’t.
- Mentor women. Ask them about the biases and challenges they’re facing – you might be surprised at how you can help.
We all hold biases, what matters is that we confront them and work to counter them. This International Women’s Day, consider how you can #BreakTheBias and create a more equitable, inclusive environment for the women in your organization.
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