This week’s topic centres around the concept of biases and decision making. There are several types of biases, some of which we probably don’t even realize we may be a part of. In business, this can be an issue for managers and leaders in the workplace, not only as it relates to their own potential biases, but also of their employees.
Confirmation Bias is one of the most common biases out there today. It often shapes our political views (if your parents supported a party you may support it as well) and look for reasons why. If you live in the US and you believe guns are bad, you look for stories that support your belief (same if you feel everyone should own a gun). If you believe that women are worse drivers than men (or vice versa) you look for stories and articles that support your belief. If you live in Canada and you believe we should have more than 2 official languages (French and English) or just one, you look for information that supports your belief.
For this week, discuss how you think confirmation bias may impact decisions in the workplace and how leaders might work to overcome these biases.
