As a woman of color in a still predominantly male field of technology and patents, and as a co-founder of ChIPs, a nonprofit that seeks to advance women in these fields, you might expect that I would be more aware than others of the pitfalls of stereotyping. And I am. But that didn't keep me from almost losing a great hire because of my own biases.

Many years ago, I was looking to hire a patent litigator. I was thrilled when a recruiter sent me the résumé of a woman with stellar credentials: Bachelor of Science degree in electrical engineering, Master of Science in electrical engineering, graduated first in her class, top five law school, patent attorney, years of litigating with a top-tier law firm. Perfect, I thought. Hired!

Until the interview. It started with a weak handshake and went steadily downhill from there. She made little eye contact and was very soft spoken. I couldn't imagine her standing up to opposing counsel or advising senior executives on challenging issues. Disappointed, after the interview, I let the recruiter know I wouldn't be calling her back.