Learn How To Intercept Bias

When a hiring committee meets to discuss candidates, it’s a prime opportunity to interrupt age bias when it happens. By refocusing the hiring committee on each candidate’s core capabilities, you’ll make the team more likely to hire the best candidate, regardless of their age.

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

“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

“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 flip back

IF YOU HEAR THIS

“I know I shouldn't say this, but the last time we hired an older candidate she was really resistant to change.”

Click to interrupt the bias

YOU COULD SAY THIS

“I’d be careful drawing conclusions about this candidate based on a different hire. Let’s evaluate each person on their own strengths and what they bring to the team.”

Click to flip back

IF YOU HEAR THIS

“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

“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.”

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IF YOU HEAR THIS

“We want to maintain a youthful, dynamic culture.”

Click to interrupt the bias

YOU COULD SAY THIS

“Just as a reminder, using terms like ‘youthful culture’ in hiring discussions can put us at legal risk for age discrimination. Let’s stick to job-related criteria.”

Click to flip back

IF YOU HEAR THIS

“They're probably going to leave in a year or two for a better job.”

Click to interrupt the bias

YOU COULD SAY THIS

“Even if they want to grow beyond this role in the next couple of years, they may want to do so within our own organization, which would still be a great outcome.”

Click to flip back

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