Qu'est-ce que Gender Bias ?
Definition
Gender bias in the workplace encompasses all the ways in which an individual's gender influences evaluation, selection, pay and promotion decisions in ways that are unrelated to actual competence or performance. It operates at both explicit (conscious prejudice) and implicit (unconscious association) levels, and affects both the recruitment process and career progression.
In practice
Gender bias manifests in multiple documented ways: identical CVs receive fewer callbacks when attributed to female candidates for leadership roles; performance descriptions use different language for men ("confident, decisive") versus women ("aggressive, bossy") for the same behaviours; salary expectations are negotiated downward more sharply for women; women are interrupted more in panel discussions. In Belgium, the gender equality index measures pay gaps and representation at senior levels. Legal framework includes the 2007 gender equality act and European directives requiring pay transparency. Structural solutions include blind CV screening, gender-neutral job descriptions (avoiding masculine-coded language), pay equity audits, and mandatory representation targets for shortlists.
Key takeaway
Gender bias is systemic, not individual — tackling it requires process redesign, not just awareness training or good intentions.
Définitions connexes
Hiring Discrimination
Unlawful treatment of candidates based on characteristics protected by law (gender, origin, disability, age, religion, sexual orientation, etc.) rather than on competencies.
Pay Equity
Principle that employees performing equal work or work of equal value should receive equal pay, regardless of gender, origin or other personal characteristics.
Inclusive Recruitment
Set of practices aiming to ensure that the recruitment process is fair, equitable and accessible to all candidates, regardless of their background or personal characteristics.
Gender Equality Index
Measurement tool evaluating gender equality in organisations across multiple indicators — pay gap, representation, career progression, parenthood impact.