Workplace Bias

Diversity, Inclusion, and Bias in the Workplace Course Outline

Course Title:

Promoting Diversity, Inclusion, and Addressing Bias in the Workplace

Course Duration:

Full-day (7 hours) or Two Half-days (3.5 hours each)

Course Objective:

To equip participants with the knowledge and skills necessary to foster a diverse and inclusive workplace, recognise and mitigate unconscious bias, and promote a culture of equity and respect.

Target Audience:

Employees, managers, team leaders, HR professionals, and any staff members involved in promoting diversity and inclusion within their organisation.

Course Content:

1. Introduction to Diversity, Inclusion, and Bias

Importance of Diversity and Inclusion
- Benefits for organisational performance and employee well-being
- Legal and ethical responsibilities
Course Objectives and Overview
- What participants will learn and achieve

2. Understanding Diversity and Inclusion

Definitions and Concepts
- Diversity, inclusion, equity, and belonging
Dimensions of Diversity
- Race, ethnicity, gender, age, disability, sexual orientation, and more
Inclusion Strategies
- Creating an inclusive culture where everyone feels valued

3. The Impact of Bias in the Workplace

Types of Bias
- Conscious vs. unconscious bias
- Stereotypes, prejudice, and discrimination
Effects of Bias
- Impact on decision-making, team dynamics, and organisational culture

4. Recognising and Addressing Unconscious Bias

Identifying Unconscious Bias
- Common biases and their manifestations
Self-Assessment
- Tools and techniques for identifying personal biases
Strategies to Mitigate Bias
- Techniques to reduce bias in the workplace
- Creating awareness and promoting inclusive behaviour

5. Building a Diverse and Inclusive Workplace

Recruitment and Hiring Practices
- Strategies for attracting and selecting diverse talent
Inclusive Onboarding and Training
- Ensuring new hires feel welcomed and valued
Developing Inclusive Policies and Practices
- Reviewing and revising workplace policies for inclusivity

6. Promoting Inclusive Leadership

Role of Leaders in Promoting Inclusion
- Leading by example and setting the tone
Developing Inclusive Leadership Skills
- Active listening, empathy, and cultural competence
Mentorship and Sponsorship
- Supporting diverse talent through mentorship programs

7. Creating an Inclusive Work Environment

Building Inclusive Teams
- Encouraging collaboration and respect among team members
Addressing Micro-aggressions
- Identifying and responding to subtle forms of discrimination
Fostering a Culture of Belonging
- Initiatives to create a supportive and inclusive workplace

8. Measuring and Sustaining Diversity and Inclusion Efforts

Assessing Organizational Diversity
- Metrics and tools for measuring diversity and inclusion
Sustaining Inclusion Efforts
- Continuous improvement and accountability
Best Practices and Case Studies
- Learning from successful organisations

9. Practical Application and Scenarios

Interactive Exercises
- Role-playing and group discussions on real-life scenarios
Case Studies
- Analysis of diversity and inclusion challenges and solutions
Action Planning
- Developing personal and organisational action plans

10. Summary and Q&A

Course Review
- Recap of key points covered in the course
- Discussion on best practices
Questions and Answers
- Addressing participant questions
- Clarification of any doubts

11. Assessment and Certification (Optional)

Knowledge Assessment
- Written or practical assessment to evaluate understanding
Certification
- Issuance of completion certificates to participants

Course Materials:

Handouts and manuals on diversity, inclusion, and bias
Access to relevant videos and online resources
Checklists and quick reference guides

Trainer:

Qualified and experienced trainer in diversity, inclusion, and bias management

Training Methods: