We are well aware that business communication is fundamental for the good functioning of a business, but in these times and with the social advances that have taken place in the last decades, talking about inclusion becomes an aspect to take into account within corporate communication itself.
What do we mean by inclusion?
Inclusion can be defined as the process and practice of ensuring the full and equal participation of all people, regardless of their characteristics or differences, in all aspects of society. It is about creating an environment in which all people are valued, respected and have equal opportunities to actively contribute and benefit. Inclusion seeks to remove barriers and prejudices, promoting diversity, equality and social justice. It aims to build societies in which all individuals are recognised and can fulfil their potential without discrimination or exclusion.
This is why inclusive corporate communication is essential to ensure the full and equal participation of all people, including those with disabilities within the business environment and as potential customers.
How to promote inclusion?
Given that we are talking about communication issues and that two of the main disabilities in this field are deafblindness and blindness, we can apply some strategies when practising inclusive corporate communication:
- Accessibility in written communication: We must ensure that textual material is accessible to people with visual impairments or blindness. To this end, it is advisable to use legible fonts, clear structure, appropriate font sizes and, whenever possible, provide accessible electronic versions, such as documents in accessible PDF format or plain text, as they allow the page or font size to be enlarged to make it accessible. It would also be interesting to include in the packaging design the most relevant text written in Braille, to facilitate access for people with blindness.
- Use of clear and simple language: As far as possible, we must avoid technical terms and complicated phrases. We will use clear and simple language in written and oral communications so that they are understandable to everyone, including people with cognitive disabilities or comprehension difficulties.
- Include captions and transcripts: Whenever we share audio-visual content, we can include captions and transcripts so that people with hearing disabilities can access the information. This includes promotional videos, training materials or presentations.
- Awareness-raising and training: It is interesting to promote awareness and sensitisation in this area within the company itself as this will not only facilitate the company’s own external corporate communication but will also reinforce the confidence of the work team and improve the company’s corporate identity.
- Feedback and continuous improvement: We must listen to the comments made by people with disabilities themselves in order to improve in this area.
Web accessibility tools
European accessibility regulations require websites to allow users to adjust the display according to their needs. This includes options to change font size, color contrast, typography, and other visual elements. Implementing these tools ensures legal compliance and provides an inclusive experience, allowing people with visual impairments or reading difficulties to navigate and understand content comfortably and independently. These improvements are part of best practices in inclusive web design and help create a more accessible digital experience for everyone.
Inclusive corporate communication not only benefits people with disabilities, but also improves the experience of all employees and customers by fostering mutual understanding and equal opportunities. So it is an excellent tool for effective corporate communication that also makes people with disabilities feel included, comfortable and like-minded by participating in your business brand.
If you want to make a corporate communication plan following inclusive standards, contact us and together we will plan a comfortable, effective and inclusive corporate communication.
