How can affinity bias influence hiring decisions?

Affinity bias can significantly impact hiring decisions by creating a preference for candidates who have similar backgrounds, experiences, or characteristics as the hiring manager or the existing team. This bias may lead decision-makers to unconsciously favor individuals who they feel a connection with based on shared traits—such as ethnicity, education, social class, or interests—over those who might bring diverse perspectives and skills to the organization.

When hiring decisions are influenced by affinity bias, it can result in a lack of diversity within the team, as those who do not share these similarities may be overlooked despite having equal or superior qualifications. This outcome can perpetuate homogeneity in the workplace, limiting creativity and innovation that typically arise from a diverse workforce. Recognizing and mitigating affinity bias is crucial for creating a more equitable hiring process that values diverse experiences and perspectives, ultimately leading to a stronger and more adaptable organizational culture.