Talking about inclusive language can spark different reactions: curiosity, confusion, skepticism, or interest. But beyond personal opinions, there’s an undeniable truth: language influences how we relate to the people around us, especially in the workplace.
What is inclusive language?
Inclusive language is a way of communicating that aims to avoid biases, stereotypes, or exclusions toward certain groups of people, especially regarding gender, but also including origin, age, disability, sexual orientation, or other identity aspects. Its goal is not to change the language or complicate communication, but to make it clearer, fairer, and more representative of the diversity that exists in society and, of course, within our work teams.
A simple example: instead of saying “the workers of this company,” you can choose “the work team,” “the staff,” or “the people who are part of the company.” Small changes, but with a big impact.
Why is inclusive language important at work?
1. Promotes respect and coexistence:
A language that includes everyone helps ensure that no one feels ignored or invisible. Acknowledging each person’s identity and individuality improves the work environment and reduces uncomfortable or discriminatory situations.
2. Strengthens internal communication:
Inclusive language fosters clearer, more horizontal, and empathetic communication. This strengthens team bonds, facilitates collaboration, and minimizes misunderstandings.
3. Reflects the company’s values:
Many organizations already have diversity and inclusion policies. Using language that aligns with those values shows consistency between what is communicated and what is practiced.
4. It’s a shared responsibility:
The use of inclusive language isn’t solely the responsibility of Human Resources. Anyone, in any role, can help build a more respectful culture through the way they communicate.
How to apply inclusive language at work?
Adopting inclusive language doesn’t mean speaking in an artificial or forced way. It’s about paying attention to the words we commonly use and making small adjustments. Here are some practical tips to get started:
1. Avoid generic masculine:
Often, we use masculine as a “neutral” form, but this can make other people invisible. Changing it is easier than it seems.
Instead of: “Employees must attend the meeting”
You can say: “The staff must attend the meeting” or “The team must attend the meeting.”
Instead of: “Welcome to the annual event”
You can say: “We welcome everyone to the annual event,” “Welcome to the entire staff,” or “Hello to all attendees.”
2. Use collective or neutral terms:
There are many ways to replace words that unnecessarily mark gender. Some examples:
Managers: responsible persons
Technicians: the technical team
Students: attendees / the group
Candidates: applicants
Users: clients / customers
3. Review emails and usual documents:
Written communication also conveys culture. Correcting some expressions can have a big effect on daily life.
“Dear colleagues” → “Hello, team” or “Good morning everyone”
“Thanks to all for the effort” → “Thanks to each person for their effort”
“The selected candidate will be contacted” → “The selected person will be contacted”
4. Listen, ask, and learn:
No one gets it perfect from the start. What matters is being open to learning, asking questions when in doubt, correcting ourselves naturally, and continuing to improve.
What if someone disagrees?
It’s normal for there to be different opinions on this topic. Some people may feel that inclusive language isn’t necessary or that it sounds “weird.” In such cases, the best approach is to maintain an open attitude, with dialogue and mutual respect.
It’s not about imposing how anyone should speak, but about offering alternatives that add inclusion and care to everyday language. In the end, what matters is that everyone feels included.
Speaking with inclusion is speaking with empathy
The language we use at work is not neutral. It reflects how we think, how we value others, and what kind of relationships we build.
Adopting inclusive language is a practical, everyday way to contribute to more respectful, equitable, and safe work environments for everyone. There’s no need to change everything overnight—it’s enough to pay attention and be willing to improve.
Because in the end, speaking with inclusion is speaking with empathy. And that’s something all of us can do, starting today.