Learn what is conformity bias, if it’s a negative factor, examples of it, and how it affects your organization.
Conformity bias is the tendency for people to align their beliefs and behaviors with those around them instead of thinking independently. This can have both positive and negative effects on the workplace. By following the same patterns of behavior, we contribute to the “following the herd” dynamic. Unlike all types of unconscious bias, such as those related to abilities or gender, which influence how we think of others, conformity bias significantly influences our interactions and decision-making processes.
Is Conformity Bias Always a Negative Factor?
Not necessarily. For many people, especially those from marginalized groups, has served as a survival strategy across generations. However, this bias towards conformity can also stem from wanting approval from others. This potentially leads to exclusion, which deprives you of the benefits of inclusion in the workplace. The key to addressing conformity bias is about creating awareness of its impact on our decisions. With this knowledge, we can create a workplace that embraces more thoughtful and inclusive decisions for all team members.
Examples of Conformity Bias at Work
There are many reasons why we are influenced by conformity. This bias can occur in many facets of a workplace, including:
Recruiting
Interviewers may form initial impressions of candidates based on superficial attributes such as physical appearance or last name, which influence their hiring decisions.
Work Culture
Employees might tolerate poor working conditions due to negative repercussions in the past when they asked for change. Having an open-door policy where employees can offer suggestions to DEI leaders allows your staff to feel heard and valued. Additionally, if management only promotes employees who work long hours, it may discourage staff from adhering to their regular hours due to fears of being overlooked for advancement.
Addressing conformity bias requires a deliberate effort to recognize and challenge our automatic responses. By promoting an environment that values individual insights and diverse perspectives, organizations can mitigate the negative impacts of conformity and enhance their capacity for innovation and inclusivity.
Embrace Inclusion with Our Diversity Calendar
To further support your efforts in creating an inclusive workplace, consider integrating our Diversity Calendar into your organization’s practices. This tool is designed to help you acknowledge and celebrate the rich diversity of your team throughout the year, providing a tangible way to counteract conformity bias and promote a culture of inclusion and respect.
FAQs
What are some of the main causes of conformity biases at work?
There are many causes associated with conformity bias, but social pressure ranks high as your peers and management may make you feel pressured to think a certain way. Fear of rejection is another cause as many people struggle with poor self-esteem and rather go with the crowd than stand up and speak out.
What is one example of conformity bias at work?
An example of conformity bias is when you are hired at a new job and go to work in casual clothes. However, you show up and notice everyone else is dressed more formally. Although it wasn’t a job requirement, you may feel obligated to change how you dress when coming to work to avoid standing out.