Inclusivity is the reason I got into entrepreneurship.

I was a personal trainer before I started First Rodeo Creative.

The inclusivity in the fitness industry, at least at the time, was… bleak. 

Lots of white, cishet, conventionally attractive people (mostly men) yapping about how we all have the same 24 hours in a day and all you need to do to get fit is wake up at 5:00 AM and hustle and grind and blah blah blah.

Not my vibe.

As a woman of color myself, and as a regular, empathetic person who understands we all have different experiences and different access to the world, I was tired of hearing the same rhetoric in the industry.

The rhetoric that kept so many people out.

So I made it my goal to invite people in.

I worked exclusively with minority clients, primarily women at intersections of different minority groups, and worked to create a space where the privileged hustle grindset had no place.

Fitness was fun, but clearly I have moved on to other things.

One thing that’s stayed with me? My passion for inclusivity. I still work exclusively with minority clients, only this time, it’s to write the words they need to brag about the work that they do.

At the risk of sounding trite, I do it for the girls, gays, and theys– that’s it. I’m dedicated to giving a voice to the minority-led brands, and I’m passionate about bringing them the hype they deserve.

Inclusivity isn’t just a buzzword. It’s a powerful approach to making sure your copy resonates with as many people as possible, and it’s especially important for businesses that value diversity, equity, and connection. For creative entrepreneurs and personal brands, writing inclusive copy allows you to reach a wider audience and ensure that everyone who encounters your business feels seen, heard, and valued.

Let’s talk about my principles of inclusive copywriting and how you can use them to connect with your audience on a deeper level.

Avoid Stereotypes and Assumptions

It’s easy to fall into the trap of using stereotypes or making assumptions about your audience, but that can alienate or exclude people. Instead, focus on creating content that doesn’t box people into narrow categories.

For example, if you’re writing for a fitness audience, don’t assume that everyone’s goal is to lose weight. Some people might be focused on strength, mobility, or simply maintaining their current fitness level. Instead of writing something like, “Get ready to lose those extra pounds,” you could say, “Whatever your fitness goals are, this program is designed to help you feel your best.”

Avoiding assumptions ensures your copy feels welcoming to all potential clients, regardless of their personal goals or background.

Use Gender-Neutral Language

Gender-neutral language is a simple yet powerful way to make your copy more inclusive. Instead of defaulting to “he” or “she” when referring to a client, use “they.” Similarly, replace phrases like “ladies and gentlemen” with more inclusive alternatives like “folks” or “everyone.”

This small change makes a big impact, especially for nonbinary or gender-nonconforming people who may not see themselves reflected in traditional language. Using gender-neutral terms signals that your business is a space where everyone is welcome, regardless of how they identify.

Feature Diverse Voices and Stories

Inclusivity isn’t just about the words you choose—it’s also about the voices and perspectives you highlight. Featuring diverse voices in your copy, whether through testimonials, case studies, or guest blog posts, shows that your business is truly committed to serving a wide range of people.

This not only builds trust, but also allows your potential clients to see themselves reflected in your work.

Keep Accessibility in Mind

Inclusivity also means making sure your copy is accessible to as many people as possible. When crafting web copy, blog posts, or social media content, consider how you can improve readability and accessibility for people who may have visual or cognitive impairments.

One way to do this is by using plain language and clear formatting. Break up long paragraphs, use bullet points, and include descriptive headings to make your content easier to scan. Avoid overly complex jargon or technical terms that might confuse or alienate readers.

Additionally, make sure that your website is accessible. This includes adding alt text to images, ensuring that your website is screen-reader friendly, and using high-contrast colors that are easier to read for people with visual impairments.

Check Your Biases

We all have unconscious biases, but being aware of them is the first step to writing more inclusive copy. Before you publish your next blog post or launch a new campaign, take a step back and evaluate whether your copy reflects the values of diversity and inclusion.

What seems inclusive to you might not resonate the same way with someone else, especially if they come from a different background. Asking for feedback can help you catch potential issues before they become a problem, and it ensures your copy truly speaks to everyone.

Inclusivity in copywriting isn’t just a trend—it’s essential for creating meaningful connections with your audience. By avoiding stereotypes, using gender-neutral language, being culturally sensitive, and featuring diverse voices, you can create copy that resonates with a broad range of people.

Inclusive copy shows that your business values diversity and welcomes everyone, no matter their background or identity. When you write with inclusivity in mind, you’re not just crafting better copy—you’re building stronger, more meaningful relationships with your audience.

My mission at First Rodeo Creative is to give women, LGBTQIA+, and minority founders the hype they deserve through fun, fearless, conversation-starting copy. Wanna write something together? Check out my services page to see how we can work together, and contact me here to set up a discovery call!