Defending Against the Halo

Deliberate practices reduce the halo's influence.

Evaluate traits independently. Rate each attribute separately before forming an overall impression. Competent? Trustworthy? Creative? This keeps a high score on one dimension from inflating the others.

Blind evaluation. Famously, orchestras that audition musicians behind a screen appear to judge them more fairly. Remove visual halos wherever you can.

Seek disconfirming evidence. When you like someone, look for weaknesses. When you dislike someone, look for strengths.