Avoid assumptions:
Avoid making assumptions based on gender, race, religion, age, or any other characteristic. Instead, ask open-ended questions and your colleague can share with you what they are comfortable with.
Steer clear of stereotypes:
Be careful not to stereotype or make generalized statements about specific groups of people. These ideas can upset, offend and create a negative working environment.
Be mindful of cultural sensitivities:
Respect and acknowledge the cultural backgrounds and experiences of others on your team by using language that is inclusive of diverse cultural perspectives.
Use gender-neutral language where appropriate:
Use gender-neutral terms such as they/them/their when the gender of the person you are talking about is unknown or when referring to non-binary people. If you’re not sure, it’s okay to ask politely. Respect pronouns once they are made aware to you.
Lead by example:
Encourage and educate others to use inclusive and respectful language by demonstrating these behaviors yourself. As a leader, it’s also important to tackle any problematic language when you hear it.
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How to be more inclusive in your everyday language at work
Partner:
To avoid using ‘boyfriend’, ‘girlfriend’, ‘husband’ or ‘wife’ to describe someone’s significant other. Use this word instead to be more inclusive of all significant relationships and avoid unwelcome assumptions.
They/them pronouns:
To avoid using ‘he’ or ‘she’ to describe someone based on their name or physical appearance. Instead, use these gender-neutral pronouns for individuals whose gender is unknown to you or those who identify as non-binary.
Everyone, all:
To avoid gendered greetings such as ‘hi guys’ which could exclude certain members of a group. These alternatives are more inclusive, gender-neutral terms which still address a group of people.
Parent, parenthood:
To avoid directly assuming parental roles or if you’re simply unsure, use these terms instead of ‘mother’, ‘father’, ‘motherhood’ or ‘fatherhood’.
Spokesperson:
To avoid ‘spokesman’ which implies that men are the default term when it comes to a person speaking on behalf of an organization or community.
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Expert commentary from Language Expert at Preply, Sylvia Johnson
How important is encouraging the use of inclusive language in different environments?
“Encouraging the use of inclusive language in different environments, such as work, school, and family, is extremely important. It promotes respect, equality, and a sense of belonging for all individuals regardless of their gender, race, religion, age, or socio-economic status. Inclusive language allows everyone to feel acknowledged and valued in diverse social settings. In the workplace, it aids in creating a culture of respect, improving team collaboration and employee morale. In schools, it supports an educational environment that respects and protects different identities and perspectives, promoting tolerance from an early age. Within the family unit, it enables open and considerate conversations, fostering stronger familial bonds.”
How can we educate ourselves and learn more about the use of inclusive language?
“Several ways exist to educate oneself about neutral and inclusive language usage. Reading diverse literature, articles, and guidelines on inclusive language usage can provide practical insights. Interactive online courses or workshops focusing on this topic are also very helpful. Participating in discussions in various social forums promoting diversity and inclusion can also be valuable.”
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