Erasing Institutional Bias

Chapter Six

Hiring/Advancement Bias

One of the most common complaints we hear from organizational leaders seeking to increase diversity and inclusion is that there aren’t enough diverse, qualified candidates. We never want to seem condescending, but there are plenty of people of all races and ethnicities and all educational and experience levels seeking employment.

There is a privilege that comes with representing an institution. We expect candidates to find us. After all, we are offering jobs. And the candidates with access and exposure will find us. Unfortunately, that often means people who are connected and networked within the same systems as the institution and its existing workforce will find us. In many situations, even if diverse, qualified ...