
Recognizing Everyday Bias
Microaggressions and stereotypes often appear in subtle comments or behaviors that may seem harmless but cause real harm. Left unaddressed, they erode inclusion and belonging. This microlesson provides skills training to help employees identify microaggressions, interrupt harmful behavior, and create a more respectful workplace culture.
Microlesson Description
This microlesson teaches employees and managers how to identify and stop microaggressions. Microaggressions are comments or actions that unintentionally, but subtly reinforce a bias or stereotype about a specific group or characteristic. The video in this microlesson shows how one person unintentionally makes an assumption about their colleagues based on their ethnicity. This microlesson is part of Emtrain’s skill-building microlessons and teaches the skill of mitigating bias.Key Concepts
- How to interpret emotional expression
- How to work with reserved and expressive people
- How to avoid making assumptions based on emotional expression
Microlesson Features
- Employee sentiment pulsing questions that provide leaders with insights into their workforce's core cultural competencies
- Emtrain's Expert Answers tool, enabling employeees to submit anonymous questions about sensitive issues.
- Rich, contemporary video scences illustrating key concepts through realistic scenarios
- A data driven, skill-based approach to eLearning that establishes a shared language for employees.

Frequently Asked Questions
Below are answers to common questions that employees and managers have about this topic. These FAQs provide a preview of what you’ll learn in this microlesson and why it matters.
Q
What are microaggressions and why are they harmful?
Microaggressions are subtle comments or actions that reinforce stereotypes or biases, and they are harmful because they erode psychological safety and belonging.
Q
How do microaggressions reinforce stereotypes?
Microaggressions reinforce stereotypes by normalizing biased assumptions and perpetuating unequal treatment, even when unintentional.
Q
What risks arise if organizations ignore microaggressions?
If organizations ignore microaggressions, risks include disengagement, higher turnover, reputational damage, and potential legal exposure if behavior escalates into harassment.
Q
How can managers identify subtle forms of bias?
Managers can identify subtle forms of bias by listening carefully to employee feedback, observing team interactions, and learning the common patterns of microaggressions.
Q
Why is training employees to spot microaggressions essential?
Training employees to spot microaggressions is essential because it builds awareness, helps prevent repeated harm, and fosters a more inclusive workplace.