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Microlesson

The Principles of Inclusive Language

The Principles of Inclusive Language
Inclusion
all

Drive Positive Change

Promoting a truly inclusive, equitable, and productive workplace hinges on educating employees about exclusionary or subtly offensive language. Teach your teams to prioritize the use of clear and straightforward language, steering clear of idioms or colloquial expressions. Encourage both yourself and your organization to critically examine the notion of "normal" language.

Microlesson Description

This microlesson provides the practical application for an inclusive language initiative. Learn how to identify and practice using inclusive language with 6 simple principles.

The Principles of Inclusive Language is one of three microlessons in our new Inclusive Language series. It partners well with the microlessons Inclusive Language Creates Belonging, and Facing Criticism. The lessons are also available as a full course, Inclusive Language Training, which contains an additional lesson.

Key Concepts
  • Use simple language whenever possible
  • Don't make assumptions about what is normal or expected
  • Understand and use language to reflect reality
  • Continued education is key

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.

Try it now and see how Emtrain Intelligence works with this lesson.

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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.

Preview this lesson now to see the actions your team can take to make in impact — free access.

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Frequently Asked Questions about The Principles of Inclusive Language

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 are principles of inclusive language important for organizations?
Principles of inclusive language matter because they promote respect and belonging. Words shape culture, and inclusive terms help prevent alienation of employees.
Q
How can everyday language unintentionally exclude people?
Everyday language can unintentionally exclude when it uses outdated terms or stereotypes. Even casual phrases can make employees feel marginalized or invisible.
Q
What risks arise if employees don’t practice inclusive communication?
If employees don’t practice inclusive communication, organizations risk harming morale, increasing turnover, and facing potential discrimination claims. Missteps in language erode trust.
Q
How can managers ensure their teams adopt inclusive language?
Managers can model inclusive language by using correct terms consistently and holding teams accountable. Their example sets the tone for respectful communication.
Q
Why is consistent language use critical for building belonging?
Consistency in inclusive language ensures all employees feel seen and valued, reinforcing belonging. It builds credibility for diversity and inclusion commitments.

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