Diversity and inclusion continues to be a top priority for organisations, and as working practices continue to change at an accelerated rate, internal communicators are uniquely placed to shape approaches to D&I and be key drivers for positive change.

All too often however internal communicators don’t feel properly equipped to be communicating confidently and knowledgeably about it.

This one-day virtual learning programme will consider D&I in an ever-changing world, and explore the role of communication and engagement professionals in fostering inclusive and innovative workplace cultures.

You will learn how to build empathy around diversity and inclusion amongst employees, explore the use of inclusive language to create a culture of respect, and become equipped with practical tools to help you drive the diversity and inclusion agenda in your organisation.

The programme consists of

Part One: Understanding Inclusion for IC

• Diversity and inclusion in a changing world
• Why workplace inclusion is important: The business case

How does inclusion lead to innovation? Explore the link between an inclusive workplace culture and a prosperous organisation, in a highly changeable world.

• How does bias limit innovation?

We explore examples of bias within organisation and how it leads to a lack of diversity.

• Unconcious bias for IC professionals

Introducing the phenomenon of Unconscious Bias, how it limits us, can lead to stereotyping, and particularly how it can limit internal communication. 

• Understanding intersectionality

Part Two: Inclusive Actions for IC

• The role of internal communication
• Respectful language

A facilitated discussion about respectful language and protected characteristics when it comes to workplace diversity. 

• Building empathy
• What are microagressions?

Explore microagressions and microinclusions in relation to internal communicators – how IC professionals can not only reduce their own use of microagressions but also act as an empathy-builder throughout their organisations.

• Removing stereotypes in language and communication

Course outline

• Why include? Understanding how to communicate the business case behind diverse and inclusive workplaces
• What do we mean by intersectionality? Exploring difference, authenticity, moving workplace diversity from ‘2D’ to ‘3D’
• Unconscious bias and the barriers to inclusion. An overview of the phenomenon, exploring the effects of unconscious bias on our roles as communication and engagement professionals.
• Building empathy with employees around diversity and inclusion. The crucial step for meaningful inclusive change.
• The use of inclusive language to create a culture of respect. What are the UK’s protected characteristics and how can we effectively communicate them in the workplace? 
• Practical tips to help you drive the diversity and inclusion agenda in your business. As a group we workshop actions to take back to your day-to-day roles. Come away with a meaningful action plan you can implement right away.

Additional benefits

Additional benefits include:  

• Opportunities to share approaches and ideas and learn from other organisations and practitioners through peer-to-peer discussions and group masterminding
• Pre and post-course access to Canvas, the IoIC's dedicated online learning environment
• Eight CPD Points for IoIC members.

Please note that we use Zoom for our online courses. Please ensure that you are able to access this system where you are based before booking your place. All times are in GMT.