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In many organizations, the most competent employees are usually poor in tutoring subordinates and new employees. Indicate the bias that is responsible for this phenomenon and explain how this phenomenon occurs.

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Answer: In this case, the responsible bias is called the "Curse of knowledge". It is a type of cognitive bias in which a knowledgeable or experienced person makes assumptions or assessments about others (new or less knowledgeable) that they must have some basic background knowledge about what is being communicated.

Explanation: “This occurs when a highly competent and knowledgeable person avoids the knowledge level of others and takes it for granted. In this phenomenon, It is evident that the most competent employees are trapped in this bias and failed at tutoring their subordinates or new employees. They must have ignored the transfer of basic knowledge to subordinates or new employees and started with a high level without clearly explaining technical jargon and terms while tutoring (assumed that new employees/subordinates must have knowledge about them).

Different psycholohical hidden traps in decision making are first Confirming-evidence trap where people seek only that information that supports their existing views, believes, or opinions while avoids opposite viewpoints. The best way to avoid a confirm-evidence trap is to have a devil's advocate who will promote debate or counterargument for your viewpoints. Also, avoid being around people who only say "Yes" to all decisions.

The second hidden trap is the Anchoring trap where people give disproportionate weight to the first information they receive. For example- A construction project proposal of $1 million comes with another Oil project proposal of $750000 so more weight will be given to the $1 million projects (as the first information seems attractive). This trap can best be avoided by being open-minded. People can get out of this trap by seeking other people's opinions or do an information search. People should try to think about issues before being anchored.

The third hidden trap is Overconfidence Trap where people are overly confident in their knowledge, experience, and overestimate their predictions' accuracy. This trap can best be avoided by having honest estimates backed up by actual statistics. Challenge your estimates while considering extremes and adjust accordingly.

The fourth hidden trap is The status quo trap where people want to maintain the current situation such as avoid taking risks and responsibilities. The best way is to the examination of alternatives. A person trapped in this bias should not exaggerate the cost of breaking it and drop the view of the status quo as the only alternative.”
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