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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 |