Five tips to improve inclusive language

Culturally appropriate and respectful language that embraces diversity is more than a nice-to-have. It is what today's customers and staff expect from brands and employers.

Text by Daniela Fleck

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Image: © AK2/istockphoto.com

At Philips, we believe that an inclusive work environment and a diverse workforce are essential for a thriving, innovative business. Diverse teams not only mirror and embrace our worldwide customer base but can also help us better understand and identify the needs of our employees, business partners, and shareholders. So, how does Philips reflect the rich diversity of 120-plus nationalities in our communications?

For communication to be effective, it needs to address the audience it is intended for. Whether in emails, marketing material, instructions for use, social media, websites, or any other form of written, oral, and nonverbal communication, all content must be free from words, phrases, or tones that demean, insult, or exclude people based on their identity, beliefs, or any particular attribute. Admittedly, this sounds complex and abstract. How do we approach our journey to ...