What should HR do when pronoun misuse becomes intentional?

HR should address intentional misuse of pronouns as a serious issue, reinforcing policies and protecting employees. This prevents hostile environments.

How does proper pronoun use reduce compliance risks?

Proper pronoun use reduces compliance risks by ensuring organizations meet anti-discrimination standards. It demonstrates commitment to equity.

How does Emtrain’s microlesson help normalize inclusive language?

Emtrain’s microlesson normalizes inclusive language by teaching respectful pronoun practices and offering practical guidance for daily interactions.

Using Proper Pronouns

Respecting Gender Identity

The subject of gender identity, including transgender and non-binary identities is evolving and may be new to some people. But the basics of respect for human dignity are the same and they go both ways. Respect for different gender identities and respect for people who are learning and trying to understand.

Microlesson Description

This brief microlesson explains the importance of proper pronoun usage. It also provides employees with examples of how to politely and respectfully ask someone for their pronouns. The lesson employs the Workplace Color Spectrum® tool to take the temperature of your workplace and rate behavior.

Key Concepts

Why proper pronoun usage is important
How to ask someone for their pronouns
How to call out disrespectful behavior in a non-combative manner

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.

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 Using Proper Pronouns

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.

Why do pronouns matter in creating workplace respect?

Pronouns matter because they validate identity and create respect in the workplace. Using proper pronouns signals inclusion and belonging.

What risks arise if employees use incorrect pronouns?

Using incorrect pronouns can cause harm, alienation, and even legal risk. It undermines trust and signals disrespect, intentionally or not.

How can managers model inclusive pronoun usage?

Managers can model inclusive pronoun usage by sharing their own and normalizing the practice in meetings and communications. Their example sets the standard.

What role do pronouns play in building belonging?

Pronouns play a role in building belonging by affirming employees’ identities. Respectful acknowledgment strengthens inclusion and psychological safety.

How can employees respectfully ask about someone’s pronouns?

Employees can respectfully ask about pronouns by using open, considerate questions such as, “What pronouns do you use?” This shows care and respect.

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Using Proper Pronouns