Business jargon is a type of language used business professionals to convey unique ideas and directions. However, it can also be used to obfuscate meaning, exclude people, and make you sound pompous.
Here are some of the dangers of using business jargon:
- It can obfuscate meaning. When you use jargon, you are essentially creating a secret language that only people in your industry or company will understand. This can make it difficult for outsiders to understand what you are saying, and it can also make it difficult for people within your own organization to communicate effectively with each other.
- It can exclude people. If you use jargon with people who don’t understand it, you are effectively excluding them from the conversation. This can create a sense of elitism and make people feel like they don’t belong.
- It can make you sound pompous. When you use jargon unnecessarily, you can come across as trying to sound smarter than you are. This can be off-putting to people and make it difficult for you to build rapport.
If you want to avoid the dangers of business jargon, here are a few tips:
- Use plain language whenever possible. If you can say something in plain language, do it. There is no need to use jargon to sound more professional.
- Be clear and concise. When you use jargon, you are often adding unnecessary words and complexity to your message. Make sure your language is clear and concise so that your message is easy to understand.
- Consider your audience. Who are you talking to? If you are talking to people who are not familiar with your industry or company, avoid using jargon.
- Be aware of the context. Are you speaking in a formal or informal setting? The level of jargon you use should be appropriate for the context.
By following these tips, you can avoid the dangers of business jargon and communicate effectively with your audience.
Here are some additional tips for avoiding business jargon:
- Use a thesaurus. If you find yourself reaching for a jargon-filled word, see if there is a more common word that you can use instead.
- Read your work aloud. This can help you to identify any jargon that you may have missed.
- Get feedback from others. Ask a friend, colleague, or mentor to read your work and give you feedback on the use of jargon.
By following these tips, you can communicate more effectively and avoid the dangers of business jargon.