About this episode
Have you ever considered how the language we use might be outdated and full of hidden biases? I explore the topic of inclusive language with Dr Suzanne Wertheim, a former professor of linguistics and linguistic anthropology, who now consults on inclusive language in the workplace. This article distils the key ideas we explored in this episode.Inclusive language isn’t just a passing trend—it’s essential for fostering collaboration, respect, and innovation, particularly in the tech world. As someone who’s seen countless examples of how communication impacts relationships and results, I can tell you that outdated language systems often alienate people without us even realising. Tech professionals especially need to upgrade how they communicate because words shape experiences and experiences define success. Here are five practical steps you can take to incorporate inclusive language in your workplace today.🚀 Understand Why Language MattersLanguage is more powerful than we give it credit for. Think about it: ever had a single word or comment derail an otherwise great meeting or pitch? That's how much influence words have. In tech, we develop tools and systems that reach global users. If our communication isn’t reflective of the diverse world we serve, we risk overlooking critical perspectives.Research shows that inclusive language helps teams collaborate better and improves problem-solving outcomes. For instance, addressing unconscious gender bias in tech products led to smarter AI outputs. So, the first step is recognising that language sets the tone for everything we build and share.👩💻 Start with Gender-Neutral TermsOne of the easiest ways to make a big impact is by ditching outdated, binary language. For example, instead of “Ladies and Gentlemen,” say “Guests” or “Team.” Replace “Husband” or “Wife” with “Partner” or “Spouse” in casual conversations. These small shifts help everyone feel seen, whether they identify within the gender binary or not.Consider this: a train conductor announcing “Ladies and Gentlemen” may unintentionally alienate non-binary passengers. Something as simple as “Attention passengers” immediately resolves that issue.If gender-inclusivity interests you, dive deeper: E80: Self-Help - Change the Way You Speak to Yourself.💡 Create Space for FeedbackNo matter how much effort you put into using inclusive language, mistakes happen. What truly sets inclusive workplaces apart is their willingness to listen and adapt. Make it easy for peers and team members to share feedback about your communication style—whether it’s in a one-on-one chat, through anonymous channels, or team reviews.For example, during a training session, I received constructive feedback that my doodles weren’t gender-neutral. While caught off guard, I used the moment to learn and ask for ad
