Towards more inclusive working environments! Breaking bias with biographical research

Politicians, employers and employees underline the importance of an inclusive labor market in which everyone can participate in work according to their ability and where opportunities in the labor market do not depend on diversity aspects such as gender, ethnicity, age, religion, sexual orientation and physical or psychological disability. In practice, however, it appears that the chances of finding work are not the same for everyone and it does matter to which 'group' you belong. It makes no difference whether someone is more theoretically or more practically educated. Unequal opportunities continue to exist.

This research provides insight into the nature and impact of bias in organizations with regard to people with a less privileged labor market position. Attention is paid to people who are looking for work as well as to people who are already working. The research maps (practical) possibilities for employers to break through this bias, in order to realize a more inclusive work environment.

This qualitative research works from a biographical approach, in which knowledge is developed from the start in co-creation with stakeholders. The perspective of employers is examined from different positions (executives, HR managers and employers) and different types of companies, including small and medium-sized enterprises. The researchers also record the life stories of twenty people with a less privileged position on the labor market. These life stories provide good insight into their way of living and thinking and the experiences they have gained during their search for work. These images and insights in turn offer opportunities to create awareness and perspective for action among employers.

The researchers will share the results through a seminar and a research report. There will also be accessible information for employers/HR managers about recognizing and breaking through bias.

 For more information about the research project 'Towards more inclusive working environments! Breaking bias with biographical research', visit the Inholland University of Applied Sciences website: www.inholland.nl/onderzoek/onderzoeksprojecten/naar-een-inclusive-werkbedrijven/ 

  • Research project

    The research project “Towards more inclusive working environments! Breaking bias with biographical research” provides insight into the nature and impact of bias in organizations with regard to people with a less privileged labor market position. Attention is paid to people who are looking for work as well as to people who are already working. The research maps (practical) possibilities for employers to break through this bias, in order to realize a more inclusive work environment.

    Research methods

    The project works from a biographical approach, in which knowledge is developed from the start in co-creation with stakeholders. The perspective of employers is examined from different positions (executives, HR managers and employers) and different types of companies, including small and medium-sized enterprises. The researchers also record the life stories of twenty people with a less privileged position on the labor market.

    Website

    www.inholland.nl/onderzoek/onderzoeksprojecten/naar-een-inclusieve-werkomgeving 

    Team

    Machteld de Jong, Halleh Ghorashi, Tjitske Lovert, Kay Mars, Eline de Rooij, Efza Üstüner, Nikke Scholten

    Publications