How can you use inclusive language to connect with your audience?

2 Use gender-neutral terms

Gender-neutral terms are words that do not imply or suggest a specific gender identity or expression. For example, instead of using "he" or "she" as pronouns, you can use "they" or "them" as singular or plural pronouns. Instead of using "chairman" or "chairwoman" as a title, you can use "chair" or "chairperson". Instead of using "mankind" or "man-made" as nouns, you can use "humankind" or "artificial". Using gender-neutral terms can help you avoid making assumptions about your audience's gender, respect their preferences and choices, and include everyone in your message.

3 Acknowledge diversity and difference

Diversity and difference are aspects of your audience's identity, background, and experience that make them unique and valuable. For example, your audience might have different cultures, races, ethnicities, religions, languages, abilities, ages, sexual orientations, or socioeconomic statuses. Acknowledging diversity and difference can help you show appreciation and respect for your audience, recognize their perspectives and contributions, and create a sense of belonging and inclusion. You can acknowledge diversity and difference by using appropriate and respectful terms, asking for consent and feedback, and adapting your speech to suit your audience's needs and preferences.

4 Avoid jokes and humor that might offend

Jokes and humor are often used in public speaking to engage and entertain your audience, break the ice, and relieve tension. However, jokes and humor can also backfire if they are based on stereotypes, prejudices, or insults that might offend your audience. For example, jokes that mock someone's appearance, intelligence, accent, religion, or culture are not funny, but hurtful and disrespectful. Jokes that rely on sexual innuendo, profanity, or sarcasm might also be inappropriate or misunderstood by your audience. Avoid jokes and humor that might offend by using self-deprecation, irony, or absurdity instead, and by testing your jokes with a diverse and honest audience before you deliver them.

5 Be open and humble

Openness and humility are attitudes that show your willingness to learn from and listen to your audience, and to admit your mistakes and limitations. Openness and humility can help you connect with your audience , establish rapport, and invite feedback and dialogue. You can be open and humble by using phrases like "I don't know", "I might be wrong", "I'm curious", or "I'd love to hear your thoughts". You can also be open and humble by acknowledging your sources, giving credit to others, and expressing gratitude and appreciation.

By using inclusive language, you can communicate more effectively and respectfully with your audience, and create a positive and memorable impression as a speaker. Inclusive language can help you build rapport, trust, and credibility with your audience, and make them feel valued and included in your speech.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?