“Yes, absolutely.”
Jackie Haggerty, senior director of talent development at ExtraHop, which provides cybersecurity for hybrid and cloud businesses, didn’t mince words when asked if companies need unconscious bias training. For Haggerty, one of the biggest benefits of unconscious bias training is that it makes leadership more aware of what’s driving their decisions.
For example, it’s not uncommon for managers to “follow their gut” or to actively seek out candidates who are culture fits when interviewing, both of which are prime examples of how unconscious bias can influence the hiring process.
According to Haggerty, if employees and leaders aren’t taught to confront their own unconscious biases then companies will continue to struggle with both recruiting and retaining diverse talent. Built In Seattle recently sat down with her to learn more about the value of unconscious bias training and the impact it can make on a company.
Do companies need unconscious bias training?
Understanding the cause of unconscious bias allows for greater self-awareness. It brings to light seemingly harmless behaviors that could have a detrimental impact on morale, productivity and growth. Unconscious bias impacts the entire lifecycle of the employee experience and is present in hiring and advancement, belonging and engagement. Bias in the workplace leads to exclusion, which in turn diminishes productivity and retention.
Providing ongoing training to leaders brings consciousness to how their biases impact their individual team members.”
Why do you believe companies need unconscious bias training and what do you think the benefits are?
Often, bias is rooted in a preference for those who are like us or think like us, and being aware of individual bias is the key to building a more cohesive work environment. Companywide training educates employees on their own biases and offers ways to help remove barriers for more effective collaboration across different teams. Additionally, providing ongoing training to leaders brings consciousness to how their biases impact their individual team members. This includes considering how they assign opportunities for learning and growth, determine promotions and recognize the biases that influence hiring decisions.
Identifying unconscious bias is a key component in creating a more diverse and inclusive workplace. Teams are more productive when employees feel that their differences are not only recognized but understood and welcomed. Employers who are able to continually improve the workplace through meaningful, impactful education are uniquely positioned to recruit and retain the best talent.
