The following is shared from US Tech Solutions:
With 28.2% of workers adapting to a hybrid work model, researchers can now see the positives and negatives of hybrid working. While it offers many benefits, ‘proximity bias’ can put hybrid workers at a disadvantage, and according to research, women bear the brunt of it. Findings from YouGov’s Workforce Insights study indicate that women have a stronger preference for hybrid working, with 72% of women wanting a flexible working location, compared to only 57% of men.
In this article, we’ll explore the concept of proximity bias, its specific effects women, and what strategies organizations can employ to prevent or stop the bias.
Proximity bias and its impact on hybrid workers
Psychologists coined the term “proximity bias” in the 1970s to describe an unconscious inclination for people to develop more favorable perceptions of individuals they are physically closer to. In the context of the world of work, this can often lead to favoritism, better collaboration, and more opportunities for those in close proximity, while potentially overlooking or undervaluing the contributions of remote or distant teams.
There are various reasons why this bias occurs. It is closely related to cognitive and social biases that influence how people perceive and interact with others. Humans tend to form social bonds more easily with those we are physically close to. People working in close proximity to one another have more opportunities for casual interactions. This plays a big part in fostering a sense of belonging and camaraderie, making it easier to relate to and collaborate with those nearby. Consequently, those who are working far away or at home might be perceived as less relatable or connected.
This bias can also negatively impact employee relationships with their team leaders/managers leading them to be overlooked for promotion and professional development opportunities. Furthermore, it’s easier for managers to see the work being completed by workers in the office, as they can see it in person and maintain regular communication. Remote workers face obstacles to communication, having to send a message/email or arrange a call for every bit of interaction. This kind of communication is less effective than catching up in person, often causing managers to not fully appreciate the significance of tasks completed remotely.
How proximity bias affects women
While men are affected by proximity bias too, studies have shown that it has a greater impact on women. There are various reasons why women are more susceptible to it. Research shows that women choose to work from home more than men, especially those with young children. According to a study by Harvard Business Review, women with children are 50% more likely to prefer working from home than men. While hybrid working is allowing women, particularly working mothers, to have a greater work-life balance, in many cases it has a detrimental impact on their careers. Balancing family responsibilities with work commitments may result in fewer opportunities for casual networking and relationship-building.