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General Business 360 Communication Guide

Inclusive Language

Use language that is inclusive, not exclusionary:

  • Use gender-neutral nouns and pronouns when referring to groups or individuals; using "they" as a singular pronoun is now accepted usage, though some audiences may find it grammatically awkward
  • Refer to individuals by the names and pronouns they use
  • Avoid irrelevant personal details

Problematic Examples

Appropriate Examples

We have just hired a disabled person, who will be Vice President of Sales and Marketing.

We have just hired a new Vice President of Sales and Marketing.

or

We have just hired a new Vice President of Sales and Marketing, who has a disability. We will need to review accessibility in some of our custom build software.

The new African-American CEO flew in from France this morning.

The new CEO flew in from France this morning.

All salesmen must attend this week’s meeting.

All sales staff must attend this week’s meeting.

Every physician must complete his continuing education credits by the end of the fiscal year.

Physicians must complete their continuing education credits by the end of the fiscal year.

Consumers over 50, who are inexperienced with social media, may not be aware of the company’s new branding campaign.

Consumers who are inexperienced with social media may not be aware of the company’s new branding campaign.

 

Use person-first language when communicating with or writing or speaking about marginalized or underrepresented groups. For example, phrases like "person with a disability," or "person with HIV" emphasize the human being rather than prioritizing an impairment or illness.

 

Keep in mind that some communities see their difference as central to their identity and may not use person-first language. In those cases, use a phrase like autistic people or LGBTQ+ people. When in doubt, ask someone what they prefer or do a quick online search to avoid causing offense.

 

Inclusive language often changes over time. (For example, rather than “handicap accessible,” the appropriate term is now simply “accessible.”) This requires adaptability and ongoing learning. When educating yourself or others about inclusive language, try to shift away from a blaming/shaming mindset and instead to focus on the end goal of maintaining an inclusive workplace. 

Content Credit

Content on this page was created by the Business Communication team at the Wisconsin School of Business.