Pronouns convey a person's gender identity, whether that be Transgender, gender nonconforming, gender-fluid, non-binary, people use a wide variety of pronouns that affirm who they are. Respecting this is key – obviously. The use of a person's self-defined pronouns respects all identities and quite honestly as a business, if you are not taking the time to address your customers in an appropriate manner, you are not doing it properly.
With that being said, In order to build trust with users, it is essential to use the right identifiers. This is why Salesforce has enhanced its Lead, Contact, and Person Account objects to include two new fields for selecting, identifying, and capturing pronouns and gender identification. This will enable administrators to capture more accurate customer data and deliver quicker time-to-value.
Using gender identity terms appropriately, including pronouns, is an important indicator of respect and acceptance. Those who have worked with Steadman Brown know we strive to promote inclusion, diversity, and equality.
At Steadman Brown, we are exceedingly proud to have fabricated processes that promote diversity, equality, inclusion, expression, and unity in all aspects of our recruitment process. You can find out more about our Diversity and inclusion process here.
So what has Salesforce said about the new update?
Salesforce confirmed that the gender-inclusive features were designed in close collaboration with Salesforce’s Inclusive Language Steering Committee – which includes members of Outforce, the organization’s LGBTQ+ employee resource group, and Out and Equal, a nonprofit devoted to ensuring LGBTQ+ workplace equality.
Paula Goldman, Salesforce’s chief ethical and humane use officer said
“Today’s gender-inclusive features will help customers better understand and connect with a growing consumer base. In today’s digital economy, it’s critical that businesses have the accurate, authentic customer data they need to deliver the exceptional experiences people expect.”
Key takeaways
- By adding these fields, businesses will be able to specify pronouns and gender identities, as well as customize fields based on their needs.
- Salesforce's gender-inclusive features will also give organizations more control over how, when, and whether they use this data.
- There are a lot of data systems and customer relationship management tools that don't capture everyone's full identity.
- The collection of broad gender-related information will not be necessary or desirable for all businesses.
Did you know..
Gender data can be some of the most sensitive data companies collect. Unintentional disclosures of LGBTQ+ and nonbinary identities can lead to discrimination or harassment. Gender data is sensitive and should be treated accordingly.
The most important thing to remember is that utilizing language and terminology that is affirming, people-centered, and inclusive is critical to obtaining accurate and reliable data and creating a better customer experience.
How was this met by the Salesforce community?
The majority of the eco-system are not only happy but proud of the changes!
After all, the world is constantly changing, and if you want to interact with your customers at the same level, understanding, acceptance, diversity, and inclusion are imperative!
This is not a black-and-white world, so why use black and white solutions?
We at Steadman Brown believe that this is an excellent update, anyway that you can enable clients to feel seen and accepted, such as acknowledging and using their preferred pronouns, is very significant.
A simple change, makes a significant difference. Well done Salesforce!