Use Plain Language to Build a More Inclusive Workplace Community
Day One: November 13, 2024 | 1:30 p.m. – 2:45 p.m., Northwoods
Session Video
Session Description
Ineffective communication causes workplace anxiety for 80% of US employees (SoftActivity, 2021). This can lead not only to technical issues on the job but also to feelings of isolation and disengagement in the workplace. Plain Language is content that can be understood the first time your audience reads or hears it. Using Plain Language strategies helps to avoid misunderstandings in the workplace and demonstrates respect for your audience. Clear communication can also empower employees to perform their jobs more confidently and efficiently, leading to promotions and salary increases. Plain Language strengthens the thread of belonging in a work team by encouraging clear and open communication. You will leave with both written and verbal strategies you can use immediately to build a community of trust, respect, and inclusion within your workplace.
Session Objectives
- Participants will gain insight into Plain Language as a bridge to inclusivity and belonging in the workplace
- Participants will be able to identify ways to write and speak so that more people can understand, remember, and act on messages the first time they read or hear them
- Participants will be able to apply strategies so that colleagues can understand and act on messages efficiently and accurately
- Participants will increase their awareness of Cultural Linguistic Services’ offerings and campus impact
Speakers
Cassie Lima Pilarski
Cassie Lima Pilarski is a workplace English instructor and trainer with Cultural Linguistic Services at UW–Madison. She graduated from UW in May 2014 with a BA in Portuguese and certificates in TESOL and Global Cultures. Cassie has been working in ESL for over 10 years in both nonprofit and state agencies. Currently, she is working with UW employees to teach them English for work. Along with teaching, Cassie also presents training sessions for CLS’ Plain Language Certificate series.
Elizabeth Gaytan
With 20 years of experience in adult education, Elizabeth Gaytan has collaborated with healthcare organizations, service industries, and manufacturing companies to enhance outcomes through improved communication.
Much of her experience involves working with medical staff and providers to improve patient-provider communication and create person-centered healthcare environments. She has partnered with local service agencies and for-profit and not-for-profit companies to conduct usability testing and provide plain language translations that increase efficiency and foster positive customer experiences. Currently, she serves as an English Language Trainer in Cultural Linguistic Services in the Office of Human Resources at UW–Madison, where she works with employees across campus on plain language strategies to promote better understanding, improve interoffice communication, and boost customer satisfaction.
