Workplace bias persists in 'everyday' occurrences

Although the majority of employees say their companies “fostered an inclusive workplace,” many still witness bias frequently.

Nearly a third of employees who witness bias say that they ignore it rather than respond to it. (Photo: Shutterstock)

Despite the progress that has been made by organizations in tackling bias, it continues in ways that are both subtle and indirect.

So says Deloitte’s 2019 State of Inclusion Survey, which finds that many professionals both witness and experience bias on a daily basis, and that can have an impact on productivity, well-being and engagement.

In a sign of progress, the report said that while six years ago a majority of respondents said they felt they had to hide or cover up at least one aspect of who they are, that’s changed for the better, with 86% of current respondents saying they feel they can be themselves all or most of the time at work.

And although 77% of respondents said that their companies “fostered an inclusive workplace,” 64% said they witness bias frequently — 63% saying it occurs at least once a month — and 64% said they’ve experienced it at work in the last year; 61% said they experience it at least once a month.

Those reporting at least monthly experiences with bias are topped by LGBT respondents at 56%; that’s followed by those with disabilities (54%); Hispanics (54%); those with military status (53%); Asians and African Americans (44% each); women (42%); and men overall, with 38% reporting monthly bias experiences.

And even though 92% of respondents identify themselves as allies, meaning that they believe themselves to be dedicated to groups or individuals who are not the same as they are, nearly a third say that they ignore bias rather than responding to it. Only 29% actually speak up about it. However, 65% of respondents say they’ve confided in colleagues or a manager when they experienced or witnessed bias.

That’s also despite the fact that 68% said that witnessing and/or being subject to bias, stereotypes or judgment has had a negative effect on their productivity at work. Bias’s effect on productivity isn’t the only negative factor; 84% said it weighs on their happiness, confidence and well-being, while 70% said it had a negative effect on their engagement at work.

“Our survey clearly reveals that even well-intentioned organizations have much work to do to close the gap between overarching goals and the actual experiences of their workforce,” says Joe Ucuzoglu, CEO of Deloitte U.S. “It’s important to shine a light on the issues holding back inclusive change and leadership, which includes recognizing and addressing everyday subtle biases that can negatively impact an organization’s workforce.”

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This article first published on BenefitsPro.com, a sister publication of PropertyCasualty360.

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