Collectively we can all #BreakTheBias.

The theme of International Women's Day this year is #BreakTheBias This theme calls on individuals to speak up against bias, stereotypes and discrimination. Imagine a gender equal world. A world free of bias, stereotypes and discrimination ; one that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive. A world where difference is valued and celebrated.

This is an important perspective, coming as we enter the third year of a pandemic that has sounded alarm bells and threatened recent progress made on women’s equity and parity in the workplace.  

Before the pandemic, in our Let’s Get Real About Equality: When Women Thrive 2020 Global Report, we observed that hiring, promotion and turnover rates for women had at last risen to levels comparable to men. But even then, it was evident there was still work to be done to eliminate bias and achieve overall organizational parity. As the 2020 report noted, we are still decades away from women reaching 50% representation in the workplace. With possible setbacks from COVID-19, we may find this process even slower.  

Within this context, it’s time to zero in on and eliminate one of the important impediments to gender equality: hidden bias in underlying key talent management processes.

Whether we realize it or not, our unconscious biases influence our professional lives, from the way we think to the way we interact with colleagues. Unconscious biases are mental shortcuts that aid decision-making as the brain processes millions of pieces of information per second. 

Unconscious biases can hinder decision-making, impact team dynamics and leadership styles, and limit company diversity. 

It’s especially important to be aware of these biases during the hiring process since they can impact the success of your future team.  

Once you’re aware of your unconscious biases, you can take steps to mitigate their effects. By taking micro-steps such as revamping your interview questions template and encouraging cross-team collaboration, you’re working towards a more diverse and inclusive workplace environment for you and your team.

I strongly believe women are our greatest asset. But empowerment does not come from outside handouts.

The truest empowerment is when she discovers her real worth regardless of any validation from others.

Together we can forge women's equality. Collectively we can all #BreakTheBias