Big Ideas in IDEA

Inclusive communication uses language and communication styles that are respectful and considerate of diverse audiences. Inclusive communication aims to create an environment where everyone feels valued and included, regardless of race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, ability, or other characteristics.

Inclusive communication involves actively seeking to understand the perspectives and experiences of others and adapting communication styles to ensure that everyone can participate fully. Inclusive communication also involves actively listening to others and acknowledging their perspectives, even if they differ from your own. This can help to build trust and respect between individuals and create a more inclusive and supportive workplace culture.

What are the Benefits of Inclusive Communication?

• Promotes diversity and inclusion
  Using inclusive language helps create a workplace culture that is welcoming and respectful to all employees, regardless of race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, ability, or other characteristics. This can help to promote diversity and inclusion and reduce feelings of exclusion or marginalization.
• Avoids offence or harm
  Using exclusionary language or language that is insensitive to others can be offensive or harmful and can lead to tension or conflict in the workplace. Inclusive language can help avoid unintentional offence or harm and promote a more positive and respectful workplace environment.
• Supports effective communication
  Inclusive language can support effective communication by ensuring all employees understand and participate in workplace conversations and activities. It can also help to avoid misunderstandings or miscommunications that can arise from using language that is not inclusive.
• Enhances collaboration and teamwork
  Using inclusive language can help to build trust and respect between team members and create a more collaborative and supportive work environment. This can lead to improved teamwork, productivity, and job satisfaction.
• Improved employee engagement
  Inclusive communication helps employees feel valued and respected, improving job satisfaction and engagement.
• Increased innovation
  A culture of inclusive communication encourages employees to share their diverse perspectives, experiences, and ideas, leading to increased innovation and creativity.
• Higher productivity
  Employees who feel included and valued are more likely to be motivated and productive, leading to higher performance levels.
• Greater employee retention
  Inclusive communication helps create a workplace culture that is supportive and welcoming to all employees, which can lead to increased employee retention and lower turnover rates.
• Improved reputation
  Organizations prioritizing inclusive communication can enhance their reputation as an employer of choice, attracting top talent and customers who value diversity and inclusion.

10 Examples of Inclusive Communication

1. Use gender-neutral language | Avoid using gendered language such as "he" or "she" when referring to a person of unknown gender. Instead, use gender-neutral pronouns such as "they" or rephrase the sentence to avoid pronouns altogether.
2. Avoid stereotypes | Avoid making assumptions about individuals based on their race, gender, or other characteristics. This can include avoiding stereotypes about job roles or expectations based on gender or race.
3. Use person-first language | Use language that places the person first, rather than their disability or other characteristics. For example, "a person with a disability" instead of "a disabled person."
4. Be aware of cultural differences | Be aware of and respect cultural differences in communication styles and preferences. This may involve adapting communication styles to ensure that everyone can participate fully.
5. Use plain language | Use plain language that is easy to understand and avoids jargon or technical terms that may be confusing or exclusionary.
6. Encourage open communication | Encourage open communication and active listening to ensure all employees feel heard and valued. This may involve actively seeking out and listening to diverse perspectives and experiences.
7. Provide accommodations | Provide accommodations such as translation services or assistive technology to ensure that all employees can participate fully in workplace conversations and activities.
8. Avoid language that is discriminatory or offensive | Avoid using language that is discriminatory or offensive, such as slurs or derogatory terms.
9. Use inclusive job titles | Use inclusive job titles that do not rely on gendered terms, such as "police officer" instead of "policeman" or "policewoman."
10. Avoid ageism | Avoid making assumptions or judgments based on age, such as assuming that an older employee is less tech-savvy or less productive. Instead, focus on individual abilities and accomplishments.