9 Cognitive Biases That Undermine How We Communicate

Our cognitive powers are essential to great leadership. Yet our brains also have their limitations. Bias is a major one. Cognitive biases are a kind of shortcut our brains take: a systemic pattern of deviation from the norm or rational judgement.

It means?we often overlook relevant information?and causes us to operate from an idea we have of reality, rather than what is actually real.

These biases interrupt our ability to communicate mindfully, which is a core component of Human Leadership.

As humans, biases have a function: they can help us deal with huge amounts of data and enable efficiency and quick thinking. However, bias also causes us to label, assume and judge - they make it impossible to be present and communicate with intention and compassion. Often, with harmful consequences for ourselves and others.?

A study by Coqual revealed that:

• Employees at large companies who perceive bias are nearly three times as likely (20% vs. 7%) to be?disengaged?at work.
• Those who perceive bias are more than three times as likely (31% to 10%) to say that they’re?planning to leave?their current jobs within the year.
• Those who perceive bias are 2.6 times more likely (34% to 13%) to say that they’ve?withheld ideas and market solutions?over the previous six months.

Here are nine examples of bias that impact how we communicate as Leaders.

Curious to know more about what each of these biases entails? Join us at Human Leaders for the full article - and endless opportunities to learn, grow and become better Leaders, together in community. Connect today at?www.wearehumanleaders.com

Reflection:

How many of these biases do you recognize in yourself??

If there are some you don’t, is this strictly true, or is it perhaps difficult to recognise and admit?

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