In a world rich with diverse cultures and unique experiences, inclusivity in communication isn’t just a nice to have, it’s essential. Brands that want to connect with a broad audience must ensure that their messaging resonates with everyone, regardless of their background, education level or cultural context. This listicle provides practical tips to help you create content that is not only clear and accessible but also inclusive and engaging for all audiences.
Understanding Your Audience
Before diving into writing techniques, it’s crucial to know your audience. Consider the following when preparing your message:
● Reading levels: What is the average reading level of your target audience? According to the U.S. Department of Education, the average American reads at an eighth-grade level. However, this can vary significantly depending on factors such as age, education and socioeconomic status.
● Cultural backgrounds: Are there any cultural nuances or sensitivities to be aware of? Different cultures have unique communication styles, values and perspectives.
Understanding these differences is essential for crafting comprehensive messaging.
● Preferred communication styles: Do they prefer formal or informal language? Depending on who you are speaking to and the place in which that is happening, it is important to know when your messaging can be informal. Based on the media in which you are presenting your message, some audiences may prefer a more formal tone, while others respond better to a conversational style.
Writing for Clarity and Inclusivity
1. Write Like You’re Having a Conversation
● Use simple, everyday language. Avoid jargon and complex sentence structures. Imagine you’re explaining your ideas to a younger sibling.
● Use contractions and personal pronouns to create a conversational tone.
● Active voice is generally easier to understand than passive voice. For instance, instead of “The report was written by the team,” say, “The team wrote the report.”
2. Use Headings and Subheadings
● Break up your text into smaller, digestible sections. This improves readability and helps skimmers quickly find information.
● Use clear and descriptive headings to guide readers. For example, instead of “Section 2,” use “Headings and Subheadings.”
● Consider using subheadings to further organize your content and provide additional structure.
3. Drop Technical Language
● Define complex terms or use alternative language.
● Avoid industry-specific terms and acronyms that might confuse readers. If you must use technical terms, explain them in plain language.
● Use analogies or stories to help illustrate complex concepts.
4. Use Images
● Visuals can enhance understanding and engagement. Choose images that are relevant, clear and engaging to your viewer.
● Consider using infographics to present complex information. They can break down data into more basic ideas.
● The visuals you choose play a crucial role in inclusivity. Ensure your images represent a diverse range of people and situations, avoiding stereotypes. Use alt text to describe images for those using screen readers.
(If you need assistance in creating inclusive imagery that resonates with your audiences, we know of an agency that can help with that — wink, wink. Through our network of photographers and videographers, Color & Culture can produce visual content that authentically represents a wide range of communities and narratives. Let’s chat.)
5. Add Bullet Points
● Organize information into easy-to-scan lists. Using bullet points can help highlight key points or steps.
● Use bullet points to increase readability and make content easier to remember. They can also be used to break up long paragraphs.
Creating inclusive content is an ongoing process that requires attention to detail and a deep understanding of your audience. By following these tips, you can ensure your messaging resonates with a broader audience, fostering a more equitable and inclusive society. Start implementing these strategies today and share your results with us. We’d love to hear how these tips are making a difference in your communications!
Need help connecting with diverse audiences? Contact our team for a 30-minute consultation — it’s on us. We’re here to enable you to connect more deeply with your audience through strategic communications that are authentic and inclusive.
