5 Actionable Tips to Build Your Inclusive Marketing Skills

In today’s diverse world, inclusive marketing isn’t just a trend - it’s a necessity. People want to see themselves reflected in the brands they support. Whether you’re a solo marketer or part of a larger team, making your marketing more inclusive helps build trust, loyalty, and stronger connections with your audience. In this post, I’m sharing 5 actionable tips to help you up your inclusive marketing game - no matter your budget or resources.

Tip 1: Speak to Real People, Not Assumptions

We often fall into the trap of making assumptions about our audience based on outdated stereotypes or data. But true inclusivity means seeing people for who they are today, not just fitting them into a box. Take time to actually talk to your audience - through surveys, feedback, or even casual conversations. This will help you craft messaging that feels authentic and resonant.

Actionable takeaway: Conduct a quick survey or engage with your audience on social media to get real insights on how they identify and what matters to them.

Tip 2: Diversify Your Creative Input

You don’t have to work with a big team to get diverse perspectives. Tap into your network, reach out to freelance creatives, or even engage with your audience to get feedback on your campaigns. The more perspectives you gather, the better equipped you’ll be to create content that speaks to everyone.

Actionable takeaway: Share a draft or concept of your next campaign with a diverse group of people - whether that’s colleagues, freelancers, or your online community - and ask for honest feedback.

Tip 3: Prioritize Inclusive Language

Words matter. They can make your audience feel welcomed or alienated, depending on how you use them. Take time to review your content for language that may unintentionally exclude people. Avoid gendered terms, use people’s preferred pronouns, and make sure your copy speaks to everyone - regardless of their identity.

Actionable takeaway: Run your next marketing campaign copy through an inclusive language checker (there are free ones online!) or review it with a focus on gender-neutral terms and respectful language.

Tip 4: Choose Stock Photos Wisely

Using stock photos is totally fine, but be intentional about it. Ensure that your visuals authentically represent the diversity of your audience, and avoid leaning on generic, overused images. Look for stock photos that show real, diverse people in meaningful situations.

Actionable takeaway: Browse free image libraries like Pexels or Unsplash, and make sure your photos reflect the real diversity of your audience. All images used in this post are from Pexels.

Tip 5: Regularly Audit Your Work

Inclusivity is a commitment, not a one-time fix. Set aside time to review your past marketing collateral and see if your messaging, visuals, and overall strategy still align with your goals for inclusivity. If you spot something that doesn’t feel right, make adjustments.

Actionable takeaway: Schedule a quarterly review of your marketing content and identify areas where you could be more inclusive in your messaging or visuals.

Conclusion:

Building inclusive marketing skills is an ongoing journey. It requires commitment, intention, and a willingness to listen and learn. By implementing these tips, you’ll be on your way to creating campaigns that don’t just reflect your audience - they engage and empower them.

Let’s keep pushing for more inclusive, authentic marketing!