Building Intentional Inclusion in Online Communities

In today’s digital landscape, fostering an inclusive online community is more crucial than ever. Online communities have the unique potential to connect people across diverse identities, geographies, and experiences. Yet, inclusion doesn’t happen by chance; it requires intention and action.

Higher Logic recently hosted a webinar in Australian Eastern Daylight Time (AEDT) titled Using Intentional Inclusion in Online Communities, featuring panelists Marietta Smit, Chief Executive at Diversity Works New Zealand; Fiona Austin-Weber, Member Relations Director at Diversity Council Australia; and Vanessa Paech, Director and Founder of Australian Community Manager. Below are some of the highlights from this program!

What is Intentional Inclusion?

At its core, intentional inclusion means embedding inclusivity into policies, communication, and daily behaviours. This approach creates environments where everyone feels valued and has the opportunity to thrive. Inclusion is not about ticking a box or meeting a quota – it’s about enabling members to contribute meaningfully and benefit fully from their involvement in the community.

Why Does Inclusion Matter?

Communities are fundamentally about engagement. For members to connect, they need to feel respected, valued, and safe to participate meaningfully. Inclusion is the foundation for building an environment where collective wisdom can flourish.

Working Toward Inclusivity by Turning Intention into Action

Creating an inclusive community requires proactive steps. Key practices for community management include:

• Using Inclusive Language: Communication should reflect the diversity of the community, ensuring all members see themselves represented.
• Thoughtful Preparation: Avoid assumptions by taking time to learn and practice inclusive interactions, such as using correct pronouns or avoiding exclusionary terms.
• Addressing Exclusion: Exclusionary behaviours should be addressed respectfully and promptly, setting a tone of support and empathy within the community.

Overcoming Barriers to Inclusion

Common barriers include resistance to change, lack of awareness, and fears of making mistakes. Building confidence through education, open dialogue, and opportunities for feedback can help overcome these challenges. Unconscious biases and the discomfort of unlearning ingrained behaviours are obstacles that can be addressed through intentional learning and growth.

The Role of Leadership

Leadership plays a pivotal role in creating inclusive communities. Genuine commitment from leaders helps prevent efforts from being perceived as tokenistic. Inclusive behaviours must be modelled at every level to ensure these values are consistently reflected throughout the organisation.

Fostering Psychological Safety

Psychological safety – the belief that members can share ideas, concerns, and mistakes without fear of repercussions – is essential for building inclusive environments. Clear guidelines, regular check-ins, and empathetic moderation create a foundation where members feel safe to engage authentically. Psychological safety enables members to participate openly and embrace continuous learning.

Empowering All Voices

Balancing dominant voices and empowering quieter members is a key aspect of inclusive community management. Strategies include creating opportunities for diverse input, encouraging feedback in safe and private settings, and using proactive outreach to invite contributions. Effective moderation ensures all voices are valued without diminishing the experiences of others.

The Unique Power of Online Communities for Fostering Inclusivity

Online communities can break down barriers such as geographical constraints, physical limitations, and socio-economic disparities, offering a space for collaboration and connection that might not be possible in face-to-face settings. They hold the potential to act as powerful equalizers, providing a platform for meaningful interaction and shared growth.

Making Inclusion a Reality

Building an inclusive online community requires ongoing effort, thoughtful design, and dedicated stewardship. With intentional practices, clear communication, and a commitment to inclusivity, online communities can thrive as spaces where everyone feels valued, respected, and able to contribute meaningfully.