What is bias?

Perceptions, Biases, & Assumptions

PERCEPTION: A
ASSUMPTIONS: A
way of regarding,
fact or statement that
interpreting, &
is considered as true,
understanding based
without proof.
on senses or intuition.

BIAS:
Having a preference
for something.
Which orange circle is larger?

Using the green stamp, tell me- Which orange circle is larger?

You will have 7 seconds.

Perception and Reality

We trust our eyes, but how reliable are they, exactly?

Perceptions, Biases, & Assumptions

What do you see?

Perceptions, Biases, & Assumptions

Describe this photo

Types of biases
What can I do?

“Let us have but one end in view, the welfare of humanity; and let us put aside all
selfishness in consideration of language, nationality, or religion.”

John Comenius,17th century philosopher

Practical Tip #1:

RESPECT

Without respect, we have nothing to work from. This is the foundation.

Practical Tip #2:

ASSUME POSITIVE INTENT

This allows us to begin with the idea that people are trying their best.
Practical Tip #3:

RECOGNIZE AND ACCEPT

Recognizing that each person is unique acknowledges their humanity.
Accepting these differences encourages inclusion.
What can *I* do?

Engage and acknowledge people of different Ask and then listen – you will be amazed what you
levels and backgrounds. can learn from everyone around you.

Avoid making “jokes” at the expense of an individual or

Intentionally look for ideas from people who group. And when you hear others using this kind of
are different than you. harmful “humor”, speak up to let them know it’s not
okay.

Next time you ask someone for advice on a project (your

Challenge assumptions – don’t assume go-to folks), stop and ask yourself – who did you
anything. Ask questions. miss/not ask? Why?

2020
Practice Inclusive Language – Video Language Recap

Instead of… Try…

“You guys…” “Everyone”, “Team”

“Girls” “Women”, “Ladies”

“Boys” “Men”, “Gentlemen”

“Handicapped” or “Special “People with Disabilities”

Needs”
“Normal” or “Regular” “non-Disabled”

Only using male pronouns… “they, them, their”

What do we do?

Recognize that WE ALL have biases.

Stop and think!
◦ Learn to mistrust your first impressions so you can rethink

Don’t ignore differences in others – be curious and ask questions

Challenge negative assumptions and stereotypes both yours and those on your
team.
Don’t consciously try to deny your biases.
◦ You have them. I have them. Acknowledge them.

Don’t be too hard on yourself – the emotional impact makes bias more likely.
◦ Be open to feedback. Learn. Adjust. Grow.

Seek positive examples, role models, and mentors

Make the right decision:

You are selecting a guest speaker to address new university business students. The students are male and
female and in their first year of university. You want to inspire them to be the best they can be and make the
most of their studies.

Which speaker are you going to choose? Please be prepared to share why.

Practice what you have learned

Use your D&I skills in a business scenario.

 The Team

Alaa – Lab technician Sylvia – motivational Tony – CEO software

speaker company

Arun - Entrepenur
George – Petroleum Baraa – University Dean
Engineer of Students
Activity: A letter to my future self:

Suppose 10 years from now, you are the manager at a company and supervising other employees.

Write a letter telling yourself how you should make sure to include everyone in your team so that they are engaged and you create an
inclusive culture for everyone.