Chapter 28: Language That Builds Common Ground
CHAPTER 28CONNECT: How can you make your work more inclusive for the audiences you want to reach? 28d, Making media texts accessible
CREATE: Write or sketch feedback about how well the Web site for an organization you support includes various audiences—and consider submitting your ideas to the site if you see room for improvement.
REFLECT: How difficult did you find it to analyze the Web site for inclusiveness? Is thinking this way a habit for you? If not, how can you remain mindful of all kinds of audiences in your own work going forward?
LANGUAGE THAT SHOWS RESPECT for differences and builds common ground can help persuade readers. Few absolute guidelines exist for using such language, but two general rules can help: consider the sensitivities and preferences of others, and watch for words that carry stereotypes and betray your assumptions, even though you have not directly stated them.