Cm. Marlowe et al., GENDER AND ATTRACTIVENESS BIASES IN HIRING DECISIONS - ARE MORE EXPERIENCED MANAGERS LESS BIASED, Journal of applied psychology, 81(1), 1996, pp. 11-21
The relationship of managerial experience to gender and attractiveness
biases was examined in decisions involving suitability for hire and p
robable organizational progression within a typical financial institut
ion. Each of 112 managers evaluated 4 equivalent resume-data sheets, t
o which different candidate photographs were attached. The photographs
were varied using a 2 X 2 (Gender X Attractiveness) design wherein ea
ch photograph depicted a woman or a man who was either highly attracti
ve or slightly below average in attractiveness. For both ratings and r
ankings of candidates, clear evidence of attractiveness and gender bia
ses were present. The extent of the bias was generally smaller for the
most experienced managers, although less attractive female applicants
were routinely at a disadvantage regardless of managerial experience.