Inclusive Language And Communication

The attached poster provides communication tips on how to best achieve positive outcomes through open dialogue. Including LGBTQ+ inclusive language, how best to communicate with deaf and hard of hearing people, blind and partially sighted people, people with learning disabilities and ethnic groups where English is their second language. 

Using inclusive language at work plays a powerful role in diminishing stereotypes and making employees feel comfortable.

The following chart may encourage employers and employees alike to use inclusive language so that all feel that they are welcome, seen, heard and respected, regardless of their backgrounds.

Non-inclusive term Inclusive term
He/She (as a general term)     Them/They
Husband or Wife Spouse or Partner
Chairman/Chairwoman   Chair or Chairperson
Salesman/Saleswoman Salesperson
Blind spot Problem area
Tone-deaf Doesn't listen at times
Tribe or tribal knowledge Team or team knowledge
Too many chiefs Too many cooks in the kitchen
Manhours Work hours or staff hours
Manpower Staffing
Blackballed Rejected
Blacklist Block or block list
Whitelist Allow
Girl or girls (if adults) Woman or women
Guys (if not all men) All, everybody, team
Ladies Women
Culture fit Culture-add or values fit
Minority/Non-white Under-represented, ethnic minority
OCD/insane/crazy Precise, fastidious, particular
Homosexual Gay, lesbian or LGBTQ+
Sexual preference Sexual orientation
Opposite sex Different sex
Sex change Transitioning, affirming
Bossy Driven
Third world Developing countries
Poor Low income
Victims Survivors
Wheelchair bound Person who uses a wheelchair
Mentally ill Person with a mental health condition
Addict/Substance abuser Substance use disorder
Alcoholic Alcohol use disorder
Ninja Multi-tasker
Rockstar Fast learner, talented
Seniors Older adults, persons 65 and older
Slaving away Working hard/nonstop
Lame Not enjoyable, dull, uninspiring
Mum/Dad (if family structure unknown) Parents or guardians

 

Last modified: 13/06/2025