A Productive Conversation Andrea S. Kramer And Alton B. Harris Talk About Combatting Workplace Bias
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In this episode of our podcast, we dive deep into the nuances of workplace bias with none other than Andrea Kramer and Alton Harris. Married to each other, Andie and Al are not just partners in life but also co-authors of the enlightening "Beyond Bias: The PATH to End Gender Inequality at Work" which was published on May 16, 2023. Their commitment to addressing gender bias doesn't stop at the written word. For several decades, through various platforms including speaking engagements, workshops, articles, blogs, podcasts, one-on-one counselling, and collaborations with national and international business and professional organizations, they have passionately tackled the omnipresent issue of gender bias in the workplace. With notable appearances in publications like The New York Times, Harvard Business Review, The Wall Street Journal, and Forbes (to name a few) they have consistently provided practical techniques for individuals and organizations to counteract the gender stereotypes and biases that threaten women's career advancements.
We delve into various topics, including the challenges of introducing oneself, the effects of bias on productivity, and practical ways to make workplaces more equitable and fair. Throughout the discussion, listeners will gain a fresh perspective on gender issues and the subtle biases that influence our day-to-day interactions.
Key Discussion Points
- Introduction Dynamics: The complexity of dual introductions and a peek into the book "Beyond Bias".
- Understanding Workplace Bias: Exploring the influence of bias on productivity, the presumption that an organization is not functioning efficiently, and the essence of their two prior books on gender bias.
- Steps Beyond the Bias: How to eliminate exclusionary behavior, the significance of small gestures, and the role of meta-leadership.
- Preventing Complacency: The importance of embedding the focus on eliminating bias within other core workplace objectives.
- The Path to Change: Discussing the shortcomings of organizational efforts towards diversity, equity, inclusion, and justice, and practical methods to make personnel decisions bias-resistant.
- Addressing Bias in Hiring: The necessity of bias guardrails during hiring, making hiring more equitable, and challenges surrounding remote work and its gender implications.
- Home Inequality as a Workplace Issue: Recognizing gender inequality in domestic settings, the dire need for flexible time schedules, and extended support for parental leaves.
As we wrap up this enlightening episode with Andrea and Alton, it's evident that the journey to end gender inequality in the workplace requires both self-awareness and collective effort. From understanding the underlying biases to implementing actionable steps, there's a lot that we can do, both as individuals and organizations. Thanks for tuning in.
Links Worth Exploring
- Connect with Andrea and Alton: Website | LinkedIn | YouTube
- The Book We Discussed: Beyond Bias: The PATH to End Gender Inequality at Work
- Read: How to Design Workplace Systems That Work for Everyone
- Related Conversation: Episode 458: Alan Henry talks about new work rules for the marginalized
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Thanks again for listening to A Productive Conversation. See you later.
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