For some associates, this is their fear. The phenomenon is known as proximity bias \u2013 when leaders display favoritism to associates who are physically closer because they\u2019re at the office in a hybrid work environment.<\/p>\n
In our previous blog post<\/a>, we discussed how leaders may unintentionally show proximity bias and what they can do to prevent it from affecting their employees and workplace. However, despite their best efforts, you may still see your managers playing favorites to their in-office employees.<\/p>\n You may notice your on-premise coworkers receive more opportunities for:<\/p>\n If you work remotely, proximity bias could hinder your professional career. Although you can\u2019t control all forms of bias, there are four steps you can take to level the playing field.<\/strong><\/p>\n As a remote worker, you\u2019re at a disadvantage because you don\u2019t see your manager or other leaders as often as those working in the physical office. Communication for those in the office is more organic and can occur spontaneously. As a remote associate, informal communication is lacking. And you have to schedule any formal communication.<\/strong><\/p>\n It\u2019s up to you to keep your boss informed about everything you do. Consciously try to increase communication with your manager. For example, use instant messaging to engage in more informal communication throughout the day. Even small effort notes to \u201cHave a good weekend!\u201d or \u201cLooking forward to our one-on-one meeting later today\u201d keeps you on your manager\u2019s mind.<\/p>\n During planned communication, make sure you have a well-thought-out agenda, so that your manager knows what you\u2019re working on, what you\u2019ve accomplished, as well as thoughts from recent meetings, presentations or team discussions.<\/p>\n Create time to catch up with your manager. You could schedule time over lunch for 15 minutes or a quick, virtual coffee break<\/a>. And you don\u2019t always have to talk about work. Make connections by asking about their day or week. Personal conversations are the best way to create connections.<\/strong><\/p>\n Some managers might be too busy for casual meetings. If that\u2019s the case, schedule the chats as an ongoing meeting in advance. A 15-minute chat can feel short, but it\u2019s meaningful if you\u2019re building trust and creating connections.<\/p>\n Some believe remote workers have more time to slack off because you can\u2019t see them every day \u2013 your manager may hold that belief. Prove them wrong. Keep producing excellent work, and make sure you up your manager about all projects.<\/strong> Create a routine for work and share that often with your manager. You may have to get creative for them to notice you, but it\u2019ll be worth the effort.<\/p>\n\n
Four Ways to Fight Proximity Bias<\/h2>\n
1. Increase Communication<\/h3>\n
2. Create Mini-Chat Sessions with Your Manager<\/h3>\n
3. Maintain a Strong Work Ethic<\/h3>\n
4. Stay Encouraged<\/h3>\n