Learn How To Intercept Bias

Flip each card to read about scenarios that include age bias and how you could respond to interrupt the bias. Scroll through to read them all.

IF YOU HEAR THIS

The hiring panel is reviewing the first round of interviews. Someone comments:
“She asked a lot of questions about our flexible work policy. She mentioned that her mom needs extra help.”

Click to interrupt the bias

YOU COULD SAY THIS

You could respond:
“I don’t think we should make assumptions based on caregiving. The key is whether she has the skills and commitment for this role now—which she seems to.”

Click to interrupt the bias

IF YOU HEAR THIS

The hiring panel is reviewing the first round of interviews. Someone comments:
“Do you think she’ll stay in the role long enough? She might be close to retirement.”

Click to interrupt the bias

YOU COULD SAY THIS

You could respond:
“We can’t really predict how long any candidate will stay—people leave roles for lots of reasons. Let’s focus on whether she’s the best person for the job right now.”

Click to interrupt the bias

IF YOU HEAR THIS

The hiring panel is reviewing the first round of interviews. Someone comments:
“She’s only been out of school for a couple of years—does she have enough gravitas?”

Click to interrupt the bias

YOU COULD SAY THIS

You could respond:
“She seems very coachable. If we have concerns, we can work with her to evolve her presentation style.”

Click to interrupt the bias

IF YOU HEAR THIS

The hiring panel is reviewing the first round of interviews. Someone comments:
“She seems like she'll want a promotion really quickly.”

Click to interrupt the bias

YOU COULD SAY THIS

You could respond:
“What did you hear in your interviews that made that impression? Let's look to see if she has a history of job-hopping.”

Click to interrupt the bias

IF YOU HEAR THIS

The hiring panel is reviewing the first round of interviews. Someone comments:
“He might have trouble reporting to a younger manager.”

Click to interrupt the bias

YOU COULD SAY THIS

You could respond:
“Cross-generational teams are the norm in most workplaces now. What matters is whether he respects leadership and works collaboratively—age doesn’t determine that.”

Click to interrupt the bias

View Summary