How can you address unconscious bias in public administration?

1 Recognize your own biases

The first step to address unconscious bias is to acknowledge that you have it. Everyone has biases, whether they are aware of them or not, and they are influenced by various factors such as your background, culture, education, media, and personal experiences. You can use self-assessment tools, such as the Implicit Association Test (IAT), to measure your implicit attitudes and beliefs towards different groups of people. You can also reflect on your own actions and reactions, and ask for feedback from others, to identify your blind spots and areas for improvement.

2 Educate yourself and others

The second step to address unconscious bias is to learn more about it and how it affects public administration. You can attend training sessions, workshops, webinars, or online courses that cover topics such as the types, causes, and consequences of unconscious bias, the legal and ethical implications, and the best practices and strategies to mitigate it. You can also read books, articles, reports, or blogs that provide insights and perspectives from experts, researchers, practitioners, or people from diverse backgrounds and experiences. You can also share your knowledge and resources with your colleagues, managers, or partners, and encourage them to join you in the learning process.

3 Challenge your assumptions and stereotypes

The third step to address unconscious bias is to question your own assumptions and stereotypes, and to challenge those of others. You can do this by exposing yourself to different sources of information, opinions, and viewpoints, and by seeking out diverse perspectives and experiences. You can also engage in constructive dialogue and debate with people who have different views or backgrounds from you, and listen to their stories and feedback with an open mind and respect. You can also speak up and intervene when you witness or experience bias or discrimination, and report it to the appropriate authorities or channels.

4 Diversify your network and team

The fourth step to address unconscious bias is to diversify your network and team, and to foster a culture of inclusion and belonging. You can do this by expanding your professional and personal contacts, and by reaching out to people from different groups, sectors, or regions. You can also participate in or support initiatives, events, or activities that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion in your organization or community. You can also recruit, hire, mentor, or collaborate with people from diverse backgrounds, skills, and experiences, and ensure that they have equal opportunities and access to resources, support, and recognition.

6 Commit to continuous improvement

The sixth and final step to address unconscious bias is to commit to continuous improvement, and to make it a part of your professional and personal development. You can do this by setting goals, action plans, and indicators to track your progress and performance, and by seeking feedback, coaching, or mentoring to enhance your skills and competencies. You can also celebrate your achievements and successes, and recognize and reward the efforts and contributions of others. You can also keep yourself updated and informed on the latest trends, developments, and innovations in the field of public administration and diversity, equity, and inclusion.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?