Why do many CEOs want workers to return to the office when most of the data indicates that productivity and worker satisfaction are higher with remote/hybrid work? The answer – Confirmation Bias. We see this all the time in the scientific and political world. People ignore or dismiss information that challenges their views. And this isn’t just the weak-minded being swayed. These are more often very highly educated people.
Confirmation Bias All Around Us
Confirmation bias was an ongoing factor in the reporting of Covid-19 results during the pandemic. Data was frequently skewed based on prevailing political narratives in their community or state. Over 100 public health officials were removed from their positions because their approach to the pandemic didn’t fit with the political narrative. At one point, even the Surgeon General for Florida altered a study on Covid-19.
Several years ago, Volkswagen intentionally installed software in their diesel vehicles to manipulate emission tests. This decision was driven by a confirmation bias disregarding the documented data regarding compliance with emission standards. This bias not only led to a significant scandal and reputational damage but also resulted in legal penalties and financial losses for the company.
As a hobby archaeologist, I have seen it as well. Until recently, professional archaeologists wouldn’t even entertain a discussion of human occupation in North America before 10,000 years ago. That was until someone definitively found one. Now they are everywhere. The State of Ohio recently blocked a Netflix documentary crew from visiting an archaeological site because the show did not support the official narrative of the site. Can book burning be far off? In its worst forms, confirmation bias has led to some of the darkest parts of our history.
What About Remote Work?
The simple idea of “going to work” is engrained in us. It’s not just something we do, it’s somewhere we go. Or at least that is what some people still think. The numbers tend to show that most people are finally seeing that work is independent of place. But even those who get it may find it difficult to break free of confirmation bias in their business practices.
Blockbuster, Kodak, Enron, and Nokio are just some of the familiar names that succumbed to confirmation bias. Whether it was not seeing past their distribution model, or ignoring technology trends, confirmation bias rarely serves us.
Recently Docusign published a 30-page study extolling the virtues of remote work. At the same time they were mandating people come back to the office. Huh? I’m sure it makes sense to someone. Again, you have some very smart people succumbing to the confirmation bias that the office is the place for work to be done. It’s even more ironic that their core business is about remote document signing possible. It’s time to take a step outside the bubble and look in.
Avoiding Confirmation Bias
We are all susceptible to confirmation bias. CEOs just have a lot more people take notice when it creeps into their decisions.
We all need to be aware of our biases. Recognizing that confirmation bias exists and being aware of our own potential biases is key to avoiding them. We can’t change what we don’t recognize.
CEOS should seek out diverse viewpoints and opinions that challenge existing beliefs. This can be challenging without becoming political, but if done in a controlled environment can stimulate a good flow of ideas. CEOs should create an environment that fosters open dialogue, where dissenting opinions are welcomed and encouraged. Encourage team members or colleagues to challenge ideas and assumptions, facilitating constructive debates that can lead to more balanced decision-making.
Also, take time to do comprehensive research by exploring multiple sources of information whether you are evaluating remote work or any topic that affects your business. Rely on reputable, diverse sources that present different perspectives and data. Consider the methodology and potential biases of the sources you use, and cross-reference information to ensure a more accurate and well-rounded understanding.
We can’t always avoid confirmation bias – or can we?
