Perceptual Bias in the Workplace; Fighting the Double Standard

Abstract

You have just transferred to a new division and it's your first day at work as an assembly supervisor. You go in to talk with your new boss, Department Manager G.C. Rasmussen. Entering the office, you notice a family portrait on the wall. Oh, you think, there is a strong responsible family man. A very well dressed attractive woman enters the room (the thought, “What a clothes horse she is!” crosses your mind) and you politely ask, assuming she's the secretary, “Hey, Hon, get me a cup of coffee, one teaspoon of sugar, no cream, please.” She departs, returns in a few minutes with the coffee and places it in front of you. She then proceeds around to the other side of the desk, sits in the chair, extends her hand, and introduces herself, “Hello, I'm Glenda Rasmussen.” That “right” foot you wanted to start out on is now firmly planted in your mouth.

Citation

Durrell, B.J. and Kleiner, B.H. (1990), "Perceptual Bias in the Workplace; Fighting the Double Standard", Equal Opportunities International, Vol. 9 No. 1, pp. 6-8. https://doi.org/10.1108/eb010522