Bees, Butterflies and Bias: Rethink the Invisible Forces That Shape Us
Bias is like a compass we didn’t know we were holding. It silently guides our preferences, decisions, and reactions without us even noticing. I love coffee, and I love honey. But if a bee flies into the room, I’m ducking and covering, ready to escape. It’s an instinct I can trace back to a childhood sting. Yet if a butterfly flutters in, I’ll pause, smile and maybe even hold out a hand, hoping it lands. Bees and butterflies—both small, winged creatures—trigger completely different responses. That’s what bias is: a preference for one thing over another, shaped by our experiences and perceptions.
Bias: It’s Not All Bad
We often talk about bias as though it’s inherently negative, but that’s not entirely true. Bias is part of the human condition. It’s hardwired into us, helping us navigate the world by sorting information and making quick decisions. In itself, bias isn’t the problem—unexamined bias is. When we’re unaware of the preferences and assumptions guiding us, bias can become a barrier. It can influence how we interact with people, who we listen to and what opportunities we open or close for others. The workplace is no exception.
The Workplace Impact of Bias
Did you know that 61% of employees experience bias in the workplace at least once a month, yet nearly one in three ignore it? (Deloitte, 2019) These subtle forces shape hiring decisions, promotions, team dynamics and even how ideas flow in meetings. Unchecked bias can create walls where bridges should be. For example, a leader might unconsciously favor someone who “feels like a good fit” without realizing how their preferences exclude diverse perspectives. Bias in these moments blocks innovation, trust and collaboration.
Turning Bias Into an Opportunity
The truth is, bias doesn’t have to be a barrier. When we pause to recognize it, bias becomes an opportunity—a tool to expand our awareness and challenge the ways we think and act. By managing our biases intentionally, we can create space for every team member to be seen, heard and valued. Imagine the innovation that comes from including diverse perspectives. Imagine the trust that grows when people know their contributions matter. It all starts with rethinking how bias shows up in our lives and workplaces.
A New Year to Rethink Bias
As we step into a new year, it’s the perfect time to pause and reflect. What biases might be quietly shaping your decisions? Are they blocking progress, growth, or the well-being of your team? At Translator's Consulting Group, we believe that understanding bias is the first step to managing it effectively. That’s why we created the Rethinking Bias courses—to help individuals and teams explore bias in fresh, practical ways and uncover strategies for positive change.
Explore Our Rethinking Bias Options
Our Rethinking Bias programs meet you where you are:
Rethinking Bias (45-60 minutes): A transformative, self-paced online course designed for everyone in your organization to recognize, understand and manage bias in daily interactions. Learn more.
Rethinking Bias: The Complete Master Class (2.5 hours): A deeper on-demand dive for leaders and managers looking to leverage communication and inclusivity as tools to challenge bias and foster collaboration. Explore further.
Rethinking Bias (In-Person): An engaging, on-site experience that introduces the roots of bias and strategies to promote inclusion, delivered in 60-120 minutes based on your need. Get the details.
Start the Year Strong
Bias is inevitable, but its impact is up to us. By rethinking bias, we can transform it from a silent barrier into a powerful bridge for growth and inclusion. This year, let’s create workplaces where every voice matters, every story is honored and every team member has the opportunity to thrive. Are you ready to rethink bias?
Let’s get started—together.