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Q.
Some of my staff members refuse to use the preferred pronouns of other staff members. How should I deal with this?

A.
Respecting and acknowledging others' preferred pronouns is important for fostering inclusivity and for creating a positive and supportive work environment. Here are a few ways to tactfully and effectively handle this situation.

First, promote education and awareness among your staffers. Consider organizing training sessions or workshops to teach them about the importance of using preferred pronouns and the impact it can have on individuals. Help them understand how doing so contributes to a more inclusive and respectful workplace culture. It's vital, too, that you encourage an open dialogue, where employees can discuss their concerns or questions regarding the use of preferred pronouns. Along with this, make sure that your company's policy on using preferred pronouns is communicated to all staff members in person as well as by email. Reinforce the importance of following this policy and what the consequences could be for not doing so.

As a manager, it's crucial that you lead your team by example. Act as a positive role model by openly and consistently using people's favored pronouns. By demonstrating respectful behavior, you encourage your employees to do the same, and by showing it's part of the expected workplace culture, you might help them bypass any discomfort. E


Dan Lumpkin, organizational psychologist, is the president of management-consulting company Lumpkin & Associates in Fairhope, AL. Need answers? Email your career-related questions to askdan@exhibitorgroup.com.
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