What are the Characteristics of Explicit Bias?
People are more likely to express explicit biases when they feel threatened or intimidated by an individual or group. When people feel threatened, they are more likely to set boundaries to separate themselves from others. When people perceive their biases to be valid, they are more likely to justify harmful behaviors like separation, exclusion, bullying, and verbal and or physical harassment. People who experience harm can suffer long-term negative effects to their physical and mental health.
What Can Be Done About Explicit Bias?
Expressions of explicit bias can be consciously regulated since they occur as the result of deliberate thought. People can be motivated to control their biases when policy and social norms are established to reinforce the message that prejudice is not acceptable, especially in the workplace.
What Can Employers Do to Prevent Expressions of
Explicit Bias in the Workplace?
Even though it may seem obvious, it is important for employers to clearly state that expressions of explicit bias will not be tolerated. Implementing company policies and goals aligned with these views will have a strong influence on the employee and customer experience.
We continue to encourage all local business owners to promote the idea to their employees that the “best” service actually means consistent service. This concept is especially important for employees who directly serve customers. Expressions of implicit and explicit bias could be hurting your business, and simply raising awareness of these values through bias education could prompt employees to shift their behaviors. A shift in these behaviors will lead to quality customer experiences, resulting in repeat customers and increased profits.
In conclusion, being explicit in your business's position regarding bias will designate your workplace as a community leader in fostering a more equitable Arcata.
Schedule a Free Racial Equity Learning Session for Your Business
If you're a business owner who'd like to host a racial equity learning session for your employees, or if you'd like help creating equitable policies for your business, please let us know. We're here to help! equity arcata provides these services free of charge to our local businesses.
