Inclusive Marketing Guide


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Media frames reality. The images, words, and stories that we hear in marketing and advertising have a subtle but significant impact on how we see the world. Yet research indicates that 72% of people feel most advertising doesn’t reflect the world around them, 63% claim they don’t see themselves represented in most advertising, and 60% say they don’t see their community of friends, family, and acquaintances represented accurately. 

As businesses strive to connect with new audiences, culturally sensitive marketing practices remain a rich, untapped area of opportunity. So where can marketing teams start? We have some tools for you.

A Harm Reduction Framework

A successful inclusive marketing approach starts with identifying an ideal state for how you would like your content to land with your audiences. Consider the following harm-reduction framework as a starting point.

Infographic comparing three approaches: 'Actively Harms', 'Does No Harm & Avoids Risk', and 'Challenges The Status Quo'. The 'Actively Harms' section highlights centering dominant groups, reinforcing stereotypes, subtle shaming, appropriation, and misrepresentation. 'Does No Harm & Avoids Risk' focuses on being value-aligned, including underrepresented voices, centering the customer, and avoiding harmful narratives. 'Challenges The Status Quo' emphasizes uplifting underrepresented voices, telling different stories, shifting mindsets, and being responsive to events.

Bias & Harm in Marketing Where To Look?

Once you have identified your goals, consider the following factors as you review your content through your chosen harm-reduction lens.

Colorful donut chart illustrating five communication aspects: Intent/Impact, Frame/Content, Language/Tone, Representation, and Access, each with a brief description of its focus.

Need More Support?

Schedule a free consultation with an expert on our team to see where ReadySet can support your inclusive marketing efforts.

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