3 Ways to Reduce Gender Bias

Gender bias is a reality in the workplace. Let's illustrate this with an example: according to a study by our partner VitalSmarts, when women are as assertive or dominant as their male counterparts, their perceived competence as perceived by others drops by 35%. At the same time, their perceived annual salary is reduced by 15088 USD. Men who are assertive are also penalized, but to a much lesser extent.

Emotional inequality is real and it is also unfair. It is unacceptable and needs to be addressed on a cultural, legal, institutional and social level, but the good news is that individuals can take control. Those who use a short summary statement of caution and common sense can reduce the effects of social backlash and emotional inequality by 27%.

You can reduce emotional inequality and its negative consequences with the following three reframing methods. These are

Behavior Statement: "I want to state my opinion directly, I will speak as openly as possible." We find that the Behavior Statement works because it first of all creates predictability and ensures that the next statement is not a surprise and eliminates the negative perception when you finish.

Value Statement: "I think I need to be honest, so it is important for me to make my decision clear." The Value Statement gives a positive meaning to the emotion, even making it a virtue by showing commitment to a shared value.

Inoculation Expression: "I know it is risky for a woman to speak so assertively, but I will express my opinion directly." In the Inoculation Statement, it works to warn observers about their hidden biases. It makes them strive to be fair or use their judgment to be fair

Making your intentions clear at the beginning of the conversation reduces the risks and negative prejudices associated with speaking openly.

Advice for Leaders:

Social backlash can disable even the best and bravest employee in your organization. Leaders should create safe environments where employees can speak their minds boldly. Leaders should be aware that women are more subject to social backlash than men, especially when they are challenging.

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Webinar: Discrimination against Women at Work