[VIDEO] Be an Inclusive Speaker - Between 2 Speakers
Being an inclusive speaker or trainer is easier than you think.
On Between 2 Speakers, Randy and Mare sat down with Diversity & Inclusion Speaker Bernadette Smith, Founder of The Equality Institute. Bernadette shared her top tips for avoiding some common blind spots and planning for success with your audience.
Top Tips from Bernadette:
Gen Z and Millennials expect inclusivity
Not only do they expect it, they demand it. Something as simple as “Hey, guys!”* can turn off your audience. Try something simple like, “Good afternoon!” or “Good afternoon ladies and gentlemen and everyone in between.”
Plan for Diversity
Diversity means more than “people from different backgrounds.” Think about learning styles, abilities, interests in the room. Plan your presentation to include different types of learners, and remember: your audience may have introverts and extroverts.
Plan for maximum impact
Think about how your audience buys in: Are they data-driven? Or do they prefer stories that illustrate a point? “Think about the emotional triggers for your audience,” Berndatte says. Hint: A little self-disclosure doesn’t hurt, either. Bernadette shares her own embarrassing stories to make a point.
Don’t assume the gender(s) of your audience
Invite your audience to share their pronouns, but don’t make it a requirement. Keep welcome statements gender-neutral or inclusive. (See Tip #1)
Help people connect at in-person events
One quick-and-easy way to do this: Make identity buttons or stickers available, beyond the pronouns. Bernadette suggests stickers like “Vegetarian” or “Theater Fan” to generate conections and discussion. Pro tip: Allow participants to make-their own.
*I loved this example Bernadette provided in the video. As a University Professor, I’m guilty of this all too often with my own classes - and I’m working to improve.
“Speakers can have a huge impact. There are lots of dimensions of diversity...If your message doesn’t resonate because you’re accidentally excluding someone, you’re not able to save the world.”
About The Author
Hi! I’m Marianna. I make the process of public speaking easier for my clients. I help with everything from preparation to managing anxiety and nerves to speaking with strength and confidence.
