How to avoid proximity bias in hybrid and remote workplaces

Executive overview

Proximity bias is a manager's unconscious tendency to favour employees they physically see over remote workers. This disadvantages remote staff in promotions and project assignments — not through malice, but through habit.

Remote employees often miss opportunities simply because they are out of sight.

What proximity bias is and why it matters

• Managers naturally think first of employees they interact with daily
• Remote or hybrid workers get overlooked for projects and promotions
• The bias is usually unconscious, making it harder to detect
• Affects professional progression even when remote staff are the best fit

Five ways to avoid proximity bias

• List every team member before assigning projects or promotions — compare against skills and job requirements
• Establish preemptive measures: define eligibility criteria for roles, require multi-step approval for promotions, involve a manager who doesn't regularly interact with the team
• Build a performance tracking system: use data and gamification to measure achievement objectively
• Use a shared communication tool: centralise team communications so remote staff are visible and included
• Talk about it: hold internal discussions to identify where bias is forming and which areas are most affected