At ICG, our mission is rooted in connection, inclusion, and transformation. As coaches and educators, the way we speak to our students matters just as much as what we teach them. Every word carries energy, and with that, the power to invite someone in or leave them feeling unseen.
One small but meaningful shift we can make is moving away from phrases like “you guys” or “all of you guys” when speaking to groups of students.
Let’s take a closer look at why this change is important, and how we can make it easily and respectfully.
Why “You Guys” Doesn’t Include Everyone
“You guys” has become a common way to refer to a group of people, and while it may feel familiar or harmless, it’s not truly gender-neutral.
For many people, particularly those who don’t identify as male, the term can feel:
- Excluding: It defaults to a masculine term even in mixed-gender or all-female groups.
- Dismissive: It can unintentionally minimize the presence and identity of women, non-binary, and gender-diverse individuals.
- Outdated: In professional and educational settings, students expect language that reflects awareness and respect for all identities.
We know it’s not always intentional, but as coaches, we’re trained to listen deeply and speak intentionally. This is simply an extension of that practice.
Inclusive Alternatives You Can Use Today
Shifting your language doesn’t mean sounding robotic or losing your natural voice. There are many simple, warm alternatives that are more inclusive, and just as conversational.
Here are some great options to replace “you guys”:
| Use Instead… | When to Use It |
|---|---|
| Everyone | Most versatile, inclusive group reference. |
| All of you / you all | Clear and friendly; works well in speech and writing. |
| Team | Great for collaborative, professional settings. |
| Folks | Friendly and warm, but still respectful. |
| Students / Coaches / Leaders | Role-specific and affirming. |
| Colleagues / Class | Useful in professional or learning environments. |
| Friends | Warm and inclusive—best for more casual or community-based settings. |
| Participants / Guests | Great for formal settings, events, or webinars. |
| Group / Crew (with caution) | Can work if tone and context are inclusive and familiar. |
Examples:
- ✅ “Let me know if everyone got the email.”
- ✅ “Thanks, folks, for sharing so openly today.”
- ✅ “I’d love to hear from you all before we wrap up.”
Each of these options keeps your tone welcoming and familiar, without centering one gender.
Why This Shift Reflects Good Coaching Practice
As mentor coaches and faculty, you already model the ICF Core Competencies. Making your language more inclusive aligns especially with:
- Embodies a Coaching Mindset: Demonstrating self-awareness and openness to ongoing learning.
- Cultivates Trust and Safety: Creating an environment where each student feels respected, seen, and valued.
- Listens Actively: Paying attention not just to what others say, but also to how we speak ourselves.
Students may not always comment on language, but many notice and appreciate when their identity is honored without assumption. This creates deeper safety and stronger learning environments.
It’s Not About Perfection, It’s About Presence
If you’ve used “you guys” out of habit, don’t feel bad. We all come from different linguistic backgrounds and regions. What matters now is that we stay curious and make conscious shifts.
Here’s how to practice:
- Notice your defaults. When do you say “you guys”? What’s your tone or intention?
- Try out new phrases. Practice using “everyone” or “you all” until it feels natural.
- Model it for others. When we lead with inclusive language, we make space for others to do the same.
And if you slip up? Just correct yourself and move on. Growth is messy, and beautiful.
Final Thoughts: Small Shifts, Big Impact
In coaching, the seemingly small details are often the ones that create the biggest transformation. The words we choose shape the culture we create. When we speak to our students with inclusivity and intention, we model the kind of leadership we hope they bring into the world.
At ICG, we believe coaching is for everyone. Let’s make sure our language reflects that.
