Building bridges: Strengthening workplace culture with inclusive communication

In today’s diverse workplace, inclusive communication is more than just a buzzword—it’s a vital component of a thriving, cohesive organization. Effective communication that embraces and respects all voices fosters a sense of belonging and collaboration. It drives innovation and productivity. By prioritizing inclusivity in your messaging, you can enhance your people’s engagement and build a stronger, more resilient workplace culture.

Impact versus intent

How many times have you heard the phrase “… but they had good intentions!”?

Unfortunately, intent can only get you so far. Despite multiple policies being developed by companies to promote an open and inclusive workplace, a 2022 report by Bain & Company found that over 70% of employees1 feel excluded in their workplaces.

When it comes to building a culture of inclusion, it’s impact that we need to consider. When planning your communication strategy, ask yourself:

  • How will my message be received?
  • How will my message make people feel?
  • Could my language be ignoring, excluding, or offending anyone?

Tools to build more inclusivity

Top view of a diverse business team showing unity by placing their hands together in the center, symbolizing teamwork and collaboration. The hands are stacked neatly, with some palms facing down and others up, representing mutual support and collective effort.Even seemingly small shifts in your communication approach can lead to a more inclusive culture. It starts with getting acquainted with your people so that you know exactly who you’re communicating with. Communicating “with” and not “at” your people is fundamental to building connections!

The following inclusive communication practices are a great start:

Develop corporate standards

Have a checklist of dos and don’ts that can be referenced while developing communication plans and deliverables.

Form an impact committee

A volunteer test group comprised of people from different backgrounds with unique perspectives, to measure impact before communication goes out.

Build a bias checker

Like spell-check… but for personal bias! Implementing structures to ensure continuous improvement can help us check ourselves for bias, rather than not seeing it before it slams us between the eyes.

Want to start building bridges at your organization? We can help!

Whether you’re looking for advice or end-to-end support to deliver a strategic campaign, we can help you craft, tailor or refine your communication so it connects with your people and strengthens your workplace. Reach out to us at Let’s Talk. We’d love to connect!

1 Across a survey of 10,000 people from various different sectors and demographic backgrounds.