Tools

Types of Bias

Affinity Bias. Having a preference or personal connection for an individual who may be similar to you. Perceiving people who are similar more positively than those who are different.

Confirmation Bias. Looking for information that confirms your assumption about someone. Involves selective attention to information that supports your stance or belief. Dismissing opinions, no matter how valid. Confirms pre-existing perceptions or stereotypes without using actual or objective information.

Halo Effect. Where a positive impression based on one aspect of performance  creates an overall positive perception. An individual is rated highly in all areas because of one thing they do really well.

Horn Effect. An individual is denied progression because of one thing they do not do well. One negative trait overshadows other traits, behaviors, or beliefs.

Spillover Effect. Pertains to a manager or evaluator judging the current performance by using past performance as a reference point.

Projection. A feature in human thinking where one thinks that others have the same priorities, attitudes or beliefs as oneself, even if this is unlikely to be the case.

Recency Effect When the individual’s most recent behavior becomes the primary focus of the review. Note this can go both ways. A poor performer does something terrific and the past performance is forgotten and vice versa with an exceptional performer.

Anchoring Bias. The tendency to rely too heavily or “anchor” on one trait or piece of information when making decisions. Usually the first piece of information.

Distance Bias. Favoring those who are closer in proximity by location, time zone or relationship. 

Gender Bias: Stereotypes about gender roles can influence how perception an employee’s communication style, leadership skills, or work ethic.

Sample Evaluation Checklist 

This checklist would be adapted to parallel the qualifications in the job description and advertisement.

Evaluation Checklist for Chair Review

Sample Interview Questions

Conflict of Interest Declaration