In today’s professional environment, business meetings are essential spaces for collaboration, decision-making, and progress. However, even in structured settings, biases—both conscious and unconscious—can subtly influence outcomes. Left unchecked, these biases may hinder fair decision-making, create unnecessary conflict, or diminish inclusivity within the workplace. While it is impossible to remove all forms of bias entirely, steps can be taken to minimize its impact. Awareness, thoughtful decision-making, careful monitoring of behaviors, broadening perspectives, and establishing clear meeting guidelines all contribute to creating more objective and balanced discussions.

Recognizing the Existence of Bias

The first step in reducing bias is acknowledging that it exists. Bias is an inherent part of being human; everyone carries preconceptions shaped by experiences, culture, and environment. Recognizing that these biases exist allows individuals to better understand their own perspectives as well as those of others. Once acknowledged, participants can take deliberate measures to prevent personal biases from influencing professional judgments.

Making Well-Considered Decisions

Objective decision-making requires a careful, structured approach. When discussing agenda items, participants should take time to consider who will be affected and how outcomes may impact different stakeholders. This process helps ensure that decisions are grounded in fairness and logic rather than assumptions or partiality. By slowing down the decision-making process and evaluating all available information, a group is more likely to arrive at equitable conclusions.

Monitoring Impressions and Behaviors

Bias often appears in very subtle ways, such as through first impressions. While initial judgments are natural, they are not always accurate indicators of an individual’s character or abilities. Participants should resist the temptation to form lasting opinions based solely on limited interactions. It is equally important to avoid assumptions based on protected characteristics such as age, disability, sex, race, religion, or maternity status. Meetings that prioritize fairness and mutual respect help cultivate an inclusive environment where contributions are valued for their substance rather than personal attributes.

Broadening Perspectives

Exposure to diverse perspectives is one of the most effective ways to reduce bias. Individuals can expand their understanding by engaging with people from different cultural, educational, and professional backgrounds. By broadening social circles, one gains greater appreciation for viewpoints that may differ from their own. This cultural competency not only enriches discussions but also supports more balanced and inclusive decision-making in meetings.

Addressing Bias When It Appears

Despite anyone’s best efforts, bias may still surface in professional interactions. When it does, it is important to address it respectfully. Speaking up when bias is observed can raise awareness for others who may not have recognized it. Equally, if someone recognizes bias in their own actions or decisions, acknowledging it and offering a sincere apology can restore trust and maintain a positive organizational culture.

Conclusion

Remaining objective in business meetings is an ongoing process that requires awareness, discipline, and a commitment to fairness. While bias is a natural human tendency, it does not have to dictate professional interactions or outcomes. By recognizing bias, making thoughtful decisions, questioning assumptions, expanding perspectives, and addressing missteps constructively, organizations can foster meetings that are both inclusive and effective. Ultimately, reducing bias not only improves the quality of decision-making but also strengthens the culture of respect and collaboration within the workplace.

REFERENCES

Callister, L. (2025, May 2). 10 tips to reduce unconscious bias at work. Skillcast. https://www.skillcast.com/blog/reduce-workplace-unconscious-bias