In todays digital age, the media that we consume and distribute is hugely impactful. From your own personal social media channels to your business’ lines of communication, the types of media that you’re outputting can shape your own media landscape. This is why inclusivity is key to determining the narrative of your online identity and how striving for inclusivity can benefit you and those around you. Do it for everyone!
WHY BE INCLUSIVE?
Let’s delve straight in, together.
REFLECTING YOUR TARGET AUDIENCE
Your target audience will come from a variety of different cultures, genders, backgrounds, and abilities. Inclusive media content will mirror the diversity of your audience whilst simultaneously demonstrating that you understand the value and importance of inclusivity, making you much more relatable.
BUILD TRUST AND CREDIBILITY
Inclusivity in your media demonstrates that your brand is socially responsible and committed to fair, ethical practices. Not only does this build your reputation but also solidifies the message that you are trustworthy and reliable to stakeholders.
CONSISTENCY AND LONGEVITY
Not everything you post can be relevant to inclusivity but, staying consistent is key. By regularly reflecting your stakeholders values, needs, and identity in your media content, consumers are more likely to remain loyal and support you in the long run. This will also directly impact your reputation as a brand long term. It’s a marathon, not a sprint.
HOW TO INCLUDE DIVERSITY IN THE MEDIA YOU DISTRIBUTE
We’ve told you a few reasons why, now let’s look at how
REPRESENTATION
Ensuring that the people featured in any media you post represent a variety of backgrounds such as ethnicity, gender, age, etc. This could include a wide range of people used in stock imagery for blog posts, socials, etc, to further promote the inclusion of all.
INCLUSIVE LANGUAGE
Check and double check the types of language that you use. Be aware and avoid any stereotypes or insensitive language in your posts and aim for words that empower and respect any and all groups. No unconscious bias around here.
ACCESSIBILITY
Aside from your actual content, your media output may not be accessible to everyone. Aim to optimise your inclusivity for your audience, for example, include closed captions to videos for people with hearing impairments or, ensure alt text is added to images for transcribing software for those with visual impairments.
CULTURAL SENSITIVITY
Having an understanding of cultural nuances can be key. This includes being aware of the impact of language to different groups and understanding that we are never just one entity of our identity. Posting culturally sensitive media content helps to promote inclusion, break down stigma and educates those around us for a more diverse media landscape.
PARTNERSHIPS AND COLLABORATION
Ensuring that any brands or companies that you collaborate with share the same values and are as equally committed to inclusivity.
A WORK IN PROGRESS
Like the media, inclusivity is everchanging. It’s crucial to be regularly educating yourself on inclusive practices and continuously adapt your media strategy to stay aligned and ethical.