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Microlesson

Inclusive Language Creates Belonging

Inclusive Language Creates Belonging
Inclusion
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Evolving Our Language to Create a Safe Space

Idioms, colloquialisms, and metaphors play a significant role in our daily communication. Though, they often carry undertones or histories that can cause harm or alienate certain employees. To foster inclusivity, equity, and productivity in the workplace, it is crucial to educate employees about identifying exclusionary or subtly offensive language. By doing so, we can create a more welcoming and harmonious environment.

Microlesson Description

This microlesson provides context for the importance of using inclusive language. Words and phrases with problematic origins have made their way into our vocabulary and some have become common industry terms. It's our responsibility to retire and replace these terms and phrases.
Inclusive Language Creates Belonging is one of three microlessons in our new Inclusive Language series. It partners well with the microlessons Facing Criticism, and The Principles of Inclusive Language. The lessons are also available as a full course, Inclusive Language Training, which contains an additional lesson.

Key Concepts
  • Problematic terms are deeply embedded in our language
  • It's up to us to monitor and evolve our language
  • Inclusive language is respectful of different identities and characteristics
  • Inclusive language creates an environment where everyone feels safe, supported, and accepted

Microlesson Features

  • Employee sentiment pulsing questions that provide leaders with insights into their workforce's core cultural competencies
  • Emtrain's Expert Answers tool, enabling employeees to submit anonymous questions about sensitive issues.
  • Rich, contemporary video scences illustrating key concepts through realistic scenarios
  • A data driven, skill-based approach to eLearning that establishes a shared language for employees.
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How to Use this Lesson

Each Emtrain microlesson blends real-world video scenarios, interactive surveys, and expert insights to build stronger workplace skills. Learners gain practical actions they can apply right away, while HR leaders see measurable insights into team behaviors. And with every training plan, you get access to all 90+ microlessons across communication, inclusion, compliance, and leadership.

Teach

Learn through real-world examples and instructional content that highlight the do’s and don’ts of workplace interactions. Employees explore key concepts, see how different situations play out, and discover practical ways to build stronger, more respectful connections.

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Discover

Go beyond training with Emtrain Intelligence. Embedded surveys capture employee experiences and provide benchmarks so you can understand how your team compares to global peers.

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Apply It - Take Action

Turn insights into action with clear steps for improving workplace habits. Learners walk away with practical guidance to apply immediately, while HR leaders gain data to support ongoing culture improvements.

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Frequently Asked Questions about Inclusive Language Creates Belonging

Below are answers to common questions that employees and managers have about this topic. These FAQs provide a preview of what you’ll learn in this microlesson and why it matters.

Q
Why does inclusive language matter for workplace belonging?
Inclusive language matters for belonging because it validates identities, signals respect, and creates an environment where everyone feels recognized.
Q
How can common industry terms reinforce exclusion?
Common industry terms can reinforce exclusion when they have biased origins or unintentionally marginalize groups of people.
Q
What risks arise if organizations fail to update outdated language?
If organizations fail to update outdated language, risks include alienating employees, damaging reputation, and weakening DEI commitments.
Q
How can language shape perceptions of respect and inclusion?
Language shapes perceptions of respect and inclusion by signaling whether employees are valued for who they are or reduced to stereotypes.
Q
Why should managers lead by example in using inclusive terms?
Managers should lead by example in using inclusive terms because their language sets the tone for team culture and expectations.

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