Quick Reference: The Big 4 Biases
Availability Bias
What to watch for: Am I basing this decision on the most recent/memorable info rather than comprehensive data?
- Red flag: Using last week’s customer complaint to make product decisions
- Quick fix: Ask “What data am I missing? Who else should I consult?”
Confirmation Bias
What to watch for: Am I only looking for evidence that supports what I already believe?
- Red flag: Dismissing feedback that challenges my approach
- Quick fix: Actively seek contrary evidence. Thank people who disagree with me.
Conformity Bias
What to watch for: Is the team agreeing too quickly? Are we avoiding conflict?
- Red flag: Unanimous decisions that feel too easy
- Quick fix: Use silent brainstorming first. Assign someone to play devil’s advocate.
Commitment Bias
What to watch for: Are we continuing despite negative feedback because we’ve already invested so much?
- Red flag: “We’ve come too far to turn back now” thinking
- Quick fix: Focus on future potential, not past investment. Build in regular reassessment points.
My Bias Detection Toolkit
The Perspective Flip Test
Before making judgments about someone, ask: “If this person were a different gender/race/age, would I react the same way?”
Meeting Check-ins
- “What information might prove us wrong?”
- “Who are we not hearing from?”
- “Are we agreeing because it’s right or because it’s easy?”
Decision Checkpoints
- What are our success metrics?
- When will we reassess this decision?
- What would make us change course?
Personal Reminders
When someone disagrees with me: Show gratitude, get curious, don’t get defensive In group settings: Champion new ideas, even uncomfortable ones Before big decisions: Consult people different from me When things feel stuck: Look for what we’re NOT seeing
Warning Signs I’m In a Bias Trap
- Everyone agrees too quickly
- I’m dismissing concerns without investigation
- I’m using recent examples to make broad decisions
- I’m continuing something just because we’ve invested time/money
- The team feels too harmonious (no healthy conflict)
Quick Daily Practice
End each day: What assumption did I make today that I should question tomorrow?