What is affinity bias?

A type of unconscious bias where one gravitates to a person they like or know; usually someone that shares similar backgrounds, interests, or experiences as themselves.  In the interview and hiring process, affinity bias can lead to unfair favoritism of one candidate over another. To help overcome this bias, it is imperative organizations evaluate candidates based on fair, objective criteria to give every candidate equal opportunity to show their potential and ensure they hire the right person, every time.