Swirl Corporate Speak: A Guide to Clearer Business Communication
Corporate jargon has become a hallmark of modern workplace communication. Phrases like “leverage synergies,” “circle back,” or “low-hanging fruit” are tossed around in meetings and emails, often leaving employees scratching their heads (and wishing for a dictionary). While these buzzwords may project professionalism or expertise, they often create more confusion than clarity.
In this article, we’ll explore why corporate jargon thrives, the negative effects it has on workplace communication, and most importantly, how to avoid it to foster better collaboration and understanding.
What is Corporate Jargon?
Corporate jargon refers to specialized words or phrases often used in workplace settings. These terms usually sound formal or technical but often lack clear meaning or unnecessarily complicate simple concepts.
For instance, saying, “Let’s ideate on this,” could simply mean, “Let’s brainstorm ideas.” This type of language, sometimes referred to as “swirl corporate speak,” can make even the simplest instructions feel convoluted and alienating.
Examples of Common Workplace Slang
Here’s a list of common corporate jargon phrases and their plain-English translations:
- “Circle back” = Follow up or revisit a topic later
- “Move the needle” = Make progress or impact
- “Low-hanging fruit” = Easy-to-complete tasks or opportunities
- “Bandwidth” = The amount of time or capacity someone has to work on something
- “Leverage” = Use or apply something
- “Touch base” = Check in or connect briefly
- “Synergy” = Cooperation among teams or departments
Although these terms might feel familiar in corporate settings, they are often overused or misinterpreted, undermining their intended purpose.
Why Corporate Jargon Persists
If corporate jargon is so ineffective, why do we keep using it? There are several reasons, including habit, perception, and workplace culture.
- Habit: People naturally mimic the language used around them, especially in professional settings.
- Perception of Professionalism: Using jargon can feel like a way to appear more competent or knowledgeable, creating a false impression of expertise.
- Avoiding Directness: Jargon can be a way to skirt around uncomfortable truths or avoid addressing problems head-on.
- Cultural Norms: Many corporate environments have ingrained jargon into their language, making it feel like the default way to communicate.
The Downsides of Corporate Jargon
While jargon may feel harmless—or even useful—it creates more problems than it’s worth. Here are a few ways it negatively impacts workplace communication:
Confusion
Jargon often obscures meaning rather than clarifying it. Employees waste time deciphering vague terms instead of focusing on achieving goals. For example, a project delay in one company was linked directly to miscommunication caused by unclear, buzzword-laden memos.
Inefficiency
When instructions are wrapped in complicated language, it slows down decision-making. Clarity is essential for improving productivity and ensuring everyone is on the same page.
Exclusion
Using overly complex jargon can alienate team members, especially new employees or those from different cultural backgrounds who might not understand the implied meaning.
Customer Miscommunication
Customer-facing teams that rely on jargon risk creating misunderstandings, as was the case when one company saw customer satisfaction scores drop drastically after introducing jargon-heavy email templates.
How to Avoid Corporate Jargon
Breaking free from “swirl corporate speak” is easier than you think. Here are actionable strategies for clear communication in the workplace:
Use Plain Language
Whenever possible, replace jargon with straightforward terms. Instead of saying “circle back,” just say “follow up.”
Ask for Clarification
If someone uses unfamiliar jargon, don’t hesitate to ask them to explain it in simpler terms. Chances are, others in the room are just as confused.
Tailor Your Communication
Adapt your language to the audience. For example, avoid technical jargon when speaking to clients who aren’t familiar with industry terms.
Review Written Communication
Before sending emails or memos, proofread them to weed out unnecessary buzzwords. Tools like Outwrite can help you streamline complex sentences.
Adopt a Team-Wide Policy
Encourage your team to commit to jargon-free communication by providing simple templates and examples.
The Benefits of Clear Communication
When you eliminate corporate jargon, the benefits ripple across the workplace.
Improved Productivity
Clear instructions lead to faster execution and fewer bottlenecks. For example, a tech startup that banned jargon in team meetings saw alignment improve significantly, boosting output by 20%.
Better Collaboration
Direct communication fosters trust and reduces misunderstandings, strengthening relationships between teams.
Enhanced Customer Experience
Abandoning jargon in customer communication leads to better understanding, higher satisfaction rates, and improved brand loyalty.
Say Goodbye to Swirl Corporate Speak
Clear and concise communication is a valuable skill that can transform your workplace. By actively avoiding corporate jargon and encouraging plain language, you’ll create an environment that fosters understanding, efficiency, and collaboration.
Remember, as branding expert Alan Siegel said,
“Clarity begins with the willingness to communicate plainly.”
Start small—review your emails, swap out jargon for simple terms, and encourage others to do the same. Your team, your customers, and your bottom line will thank you.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- What is corporate jargon?
Corporate jargon refers to overly complex workplace language that often obscures meaning, such as “circle back” or “low-hanging fruit.”
- Why do people use corporate jargon?
It’s often a habit or a way to appear professional, but it can also be used to avoid being direct.
- How can I avoid using corporate jargon?
Replace jargon with plain language, tailor communication to your audience, and proofread for clarity.
- Why is corporate jargon harmful?
It creates confusion, reduces efficiency, and makes people feel excluded, ultimately hindering communication.
- What are the benefits of clear communication?
Clear communication improves productivity, builds trust, and enhances customer satisfaction.