Self Serving Bias

A self-serving bias is the common habit of a person taking credit for positive events or outcomes, but blaming outside factors for negative events.

For example, when a meeting went well, you believe it was because of your hard work and preparation. However, if the meeting did not go well, someone in your team has not delivered as per your expectations.

A manager can overcome self serving bias by:

1. be aware of team members who constantly project positive self and blame others
2. ask probing questions as to why something worked and why it did not. This will help in understanding the real reasons.
3. accepting that sometimes things do not go as planned.
4. fixing accountability and praising the effort so that team members are motivated.