Module 2: Overcoming Unconscious Bias to Foster an Inclusive Workplace | DEI Certificate

The DEI Certificate program will provide participants with the knowledge and skills needed to develop, implement, and sustain effective DEI strategies and policies. Although research has shown that diverse and inclusive workplaces lead to better business outcomes, many A/E/C professionals do not have a blueprint to successfully activate an internal DEI program within their firm. By developing a DEI Certificate program customized for the A/E/C industry, SMPS will offer members the tools and roadmap to create a more inclusive and welcoming workplace.

To promote lifelong learning, SMPS will also require DEI certificate holders to earn DEUs, which are continuing education units specifically focused on diversity. This ongoing education allows participants to have access to resources that help them navigate the everchanging environment of workplace diversity. This certificate program aligns with our strategic priority to cultivate professionals with diverse expertise.

CEUs

Each 60-90 minute virtual program in this course is approved for 1 diversity education unit (DEU) .

Module 2: Overcoming Unconscious Bias to Foster an Inclusive Workplace

Unconscious bias is an inherent aspect of human cognition, influenced by our backgrounds, experiences, and societal norms. This course provides a comprehensive understanding of unconscious bias, its types, and its impact on workplace inclusivity. Participants will learn practical strategies to recognize, address, and mitigate unconscious biases in their professional environments. Through engaging discussions and actionable insights, this course aims to empower individuals and organizations to foster a more inclusive and equitable workplace.

Key Takeaways:

1. Understanding Unconscious Bias: Learn what unconscious bias is, how it develops, and why it is unavoidable due to the immense amount of information we process daily.
2. Types of Unconscious Bias: Gain knowledge about various types of unconscious biases such as affinity bias, beauty bias, confirmation bias, gender bias, the halo/horns effect, name bias, and weight bias, and how they manifest in the workplace.
3. Addressing Unconscious Bias: Discover the power of asking good questions to uncover and address biases. Learn techniques to identify commonalities, create contrast, and ask questions that promote inclusion and innovation.
4. Bias in the Hiring Process: Identify how bias influences hiring decisions and learn strategies to mitigate it, including:
   • Exaggeration: Reviewing job postings to ensure qualifications are necessary and inclusive.
   • Consistency: Using standardized questions and evaluation criteria during interviews.
   • Involvement: Increasing diversity in decision-making processes by involving multiple people with specific roles.
5. Practical Implementation: Understand the importance of continuous improvement and the impact of addressing unconscious bias on creating a better workplace for current and future employees.
6. Resources for Further Learning: Access additional resources such as Project Implicit and articles on the connection between unconscious bias and brain function, and examples of unconscious bias in the workplace.

About Kat Kibben

Kat Kibben is an award-winning writer and renowned keynote speaker known for helping hiring teams write inclusive, unbiased job postings that help them hire the right person faster. 

Before founding Three Ears Media, Kat was a CMO, Technical Copywriter, and Managing Editor for leading companies like Monster.com, Care.com, and Randstad Worldwide. Today, they are frequently featured as an HR and recruiting expert in publications like The New York Times, Chicago Tribune, and Forbes. 

Kat travels the country in their RV while dividing time between North Carolina, Colorado, and the dogs behind the name Three Ears Media.

Each 60-minute webinar in this course is approved for 1 continuing education unit (CEU) for the Certified Professional Services Marketer program.