7   Writing Style

Gender

Avoid specifying gender where possible. If you’ re specifying gender, you’ re not speaking to your readers directly (that is, you’ re addressing them in the third person rather than the second).

Here are some general guidelines for avoiding inappropriate references to gender:

• Use generic nouns when referring to specific groups. For example, use “managers” to include both male and female managers.

• Avoid phrases that make assumptions about gender. For example, “delegates and their wives are invited to attend the breakfast meeting” implies that all delegates are male.

• Use gender-neutral titles when referring to people.

• Avoid gender-specific personal pronouns (for example, “his,” “her,” “he/she”). Use position titles (for example, “manager”), or address the reader directly (“you”).