Using proper pronouns, including gender-neutral pronouns when you don’t know people’s pronouns, is important for creating an inclusive culture at work.
But while there’s a growing awareness of the need to use gender-neutral pronouns in the workplace-driven, in part, by the increasing visibility of and advocacy for non-binary, gender-queer, and gender-nonconforming folks – using gender-neutral language doesn’t necessarily come easily to everyone.
Traditional gendered language is so deeply ingrained in our daily discourse that unlearning this language and learning gender-neutral alternatives requires a conscious effort for many people. As a leader, you can (and should) help foster an inclusive environment where workers feel safe and supported in sharing their pronouns and where they feel comfortable and curious enough to communicate in ways that don’t alienate others.