Alexa S. Trifilo’s dissertation tested whether racially ambiguous avatars in virtual interviews can reduce implicit bias in hiring. After developing and refining avatars through three pilots, the main experiment assessed candidate evaluations across avatar types and qualification levels. Results showed that avatars could mask race effectively, and that avatar type did not significantly change hiring recommendations in this study. This suggests they may help prevent bias from emerging in certain contexts, though participant comfort and realism remain concerns. The research offers a practical framework for integrating XR tools into hiring processes to promote inclusivity, alongside broader organizational and cultural initiatives.
Implicit Bias in Hiring: Leveraging Avatars to Foster Inclusive Hiring Practices
