Barriers to Progress: Confidence and Bias

Abstract

In the canteen, Maya happened to sit down for coffee with someone whose face she recognized, but whom she couldn’t quite identify. As they started talking, Maya suddenly remembered; this was the VP of Marketing, Dara Swann, who normally worked out of the California office. Dara was charming and interested, and got Maya to tell her story. Liking what she heard and saw, she researched Maya’s track record when she got back to her office. Within two weeks, having spoken with Maya’s boss, she suggested Maya tried for a new job: why don’t you come and work in my department for a while, I really need someone with your experi- ence. It will be a big step up. Maya was flattered, but said no — there was too much on her plate, she didn’t feel ready for such a big change and she hoped the opportunity would arise again when she would be better prepared.