The Inclusive Language Field Guide

The Inclusive Language Field Guide is an excellent read for both people new to inclusive language, and those looking to polish their existing skills.

The book flows easily, is very practical, and is written from the perspective of linguistics and anthropology - getting very often into WHY language can be uninclusive, rather than just listing inappropriate words. Language nerds like myself and people looking for rules to live by will certainly appreciate the notions introduced here, along with the 6 best practices (or principles) the author recommends.

There are plenty of practical examples, stories and exercises you can use to work on adding inclusive language into your skill set, as well as an inclusion checklist and a word replacement dictionary.

Well worth the read!

"The Inclusive Language Field Guide" by Suzanne Wertheim provides an indispensable roadmap for navigating the ever-evolving landscape of communication in our dynamic and diverse world. With clear and practical guidance, linguistic anthropologist and business consultant Suzanne Wertheim outlines six fundamental principles that empower individuals to communicate effectively and respectfully in today's intricate linguistic landscape.

By embracing these principles, readers will learn how to reflect reality, show genuine respect, engage others, incorporate diverse perspectives, prevent erasure, and recognize potential pain points. This guide demystifies the challenges surrounding inclusive language, shedding light on the significance of terms like "they/them" and dispelling misconceptions about phrases such as "you guys."

Filled with real-world examples, impactful word substitutions, and skill-enhancing exercises, this book equips readers with a foundational toolkit to independently evaluate and implement inclusive language practices. It transcends mere language guidelines; it's a guide for leaders, empowering them to foster inclusive and respectful communication within their organizations. "The Inclusive Language Field Guide" is a must-read for anyone committed to strengthening relationships through the power of inclusive language, making it an essential resource for HR professionals and leaders alike.

The Inclusive Language Field Guide is a great resource and guide for everyone in an age where gender and sexuality labels are changing from what a lot of us grew up with. This is a very practical and helpful guide on how to approach people in a respectful and non-threatening way. This should be a must-read for everyone. Wonderful resource!

Thanks Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to review this advanced review copy (ARC) in exchange for my honest review on the book!

I really liked this book. As someone very interested in and committed to diversity and inclusion, this book really appealed to me and made me question and challenge myself on how I currently communicate. I know I can do a lot better, and will keep referring to this book on how I can be better.

I will be recommending this book to colleagues who are also striving to be more inclusive in their communication.

I'm sure some people will say this book is "woke" and whatever, but the reality is is that language matters. How we engage with people matters. How we address people matters. It always has. No one likes being called the wrong name. Or even inadvertently made to feel excluded. The way we bring people together can be immensely influenced by how we communicate.

Great book. Well done.

Thanks to the publisher, NetGalley and the author for an eARC. All opinions are my own.

"The Inclusive Language Field Guide" by Suzanne Wertheim shows that it doesn’t take much effort to be inclusive in your language, and demonstrates the best practices to ensure you are not inadvertently causing pain to someone with your word choices or actions.

The book covers more than pronouns, including unconscious demoting, how to deal with ‘difficult’ names and how to comfortably address a person with a disability. The use of examples were particularly helpful and painted a picture that I couldn't get out of my mind.

This book is so needed. It deserves to be on the compulsory reading lists for teaching colleges and medical schools. I have learned a lot from this book that I can put into practice to help me consider the needs of people I come into contact with, making them feel comfortable and welcomed. Thank you to the publisher and author for access to an advanced digital copy. All opinions are my own.

This is the book that communications professionals need to navigate the ever changing field of communications involving diversity and inclusion — always based on respect. It’s a thorough examination of best practices and pitfalls with suggested ways to practice the material you’ve learned at the end of each chapter. Highly recommend for young and more experienced communications professionals alike!