Eliminate Workplace Jargons to Break Communication Barriers

Imagine a conversation between two colleagues. A senior manager, Mr Sharma, with decades of experience, explains a project to a young Gen Z worker, Rohit.

“Rohit, we need to leverage our core competencies to create a paradigm shift in our market strategy. Let’s touch base offline to ensure we all sing from the same hymn sheet.”

Rohit nods but leaves the meeting flummoxed by the jargon. The misinterpretation leads to delays in the work done, creating a ripple effect of confusion and inefficiency.

What is Workplace Jargon?

Workplace jargon refers to a specialised or technical language used in an industry or profession. While it may facilitate communication among those in the know, it can be utterly confusing and alienating to others, particularly newcomers.

Common workplace jargon refers to specialised terms or phrases used within a particular industry or profession that may facilitate communication among insiders but can confuse others. While these terms might seem efficient for those in the know, they can create barriers, particularly for newcomers or those outside the field, leading to misunderstandings and a lack of inclusivity in the workplace.

Some of the most common jargons used in the corporate world include:

• Synergy, instead of Working Together
• Low-hanging fruit instead of an Easy task
• Think outside the box instead of Creative thinking
• Paradigm shift instead of Fundamental change
• Touch base instead of Check-in
• Deep dive instead of Detailed analysis
• Move the needle instead of Making a noticeable difference
• Circle back instead of Revisiting later
• Bandwidth instead of Capacity to handle work
• Boil the ocean instead of undertaking an impossible task

Impact of Jargons on Communication

Workplace jargon can be particularly confusing for Gen Z and Millennial workers in India. According to a Mint article, 40% of younger employees have reported feeling left out due to jargon. 8 in 10 professionals (81%) believe that workers with a better understanding of workplace jargon can achieve raises and promotions smoothly.

Excessive use of workplace jargon leads to:

1.?Alienation of Younger Employees: Jargon creates a sense of exclusion, making younger employees feel isolated. They may feel like outsiders, unable to fully engage with their team.

?2.?Potential Misunderstandings and Errors: Misinterpretations can lead to mistakes impacting work quality and damaging reputations. The lack of clarity can lead to errors that could have been easily avoided with clear communication.

?3.???Difficulty Understanding Work Assignments: When instructions are laden with jargon, it becomes difficult for workers to understand their responsibilities, leading to inefficiency and frustration.

?Why are jargons confusing for Millenials and Gen Z?

1. Lack of Exposure

Millennials and Gen Z may not have been exposed to the same jargon as older workers.

Many jargons have been developed over time and are often used by those who have been in an industry for several years. New to the workforce, younger workers may not have had the opportunity to learn these terms. This lack of exposure can lead to confusion and misunderstandings, as they may not immediately grasp the meaning of specific phrases or terminology that are second nature to their more experienced colleagues.

2. Outdated Terms

Some jargon may be outdated or no longer in use, adding to the confusion.

Language evolves, and once common terms may fall out of use or change in meaning. When outdated jargon is used, it can create a disconnect, especially for those who have never encountered these terms before. This can lead to a feeling of alienation and can hinder effective communication within a team.

3. Industry-Specific Terms

The same words used differently across industries can be perplexing.

Jargon is often specific to a particular industry or even a particular company within an industry. A term that means one thing in the tech industry might have an entirely different meaning in finance. This can be particularly confusing for employees who are new to an industry or those who have transitioned from one sector to another. The lack of standardisation in terminology across different fields can lead to misunderstandings and miscommunications.

4. Communication Channel Preferences

Younger generations may prefer digital communication channels, requiring a different vocabulary.

Millennials and Gen Z have grown up in a digital age, and their communication preferences often lean towards texting, social media, and other online platforms. These channels often favour concise and straightforward language with emojis or informal slang. They may feel out of their element when faced with traditional corporate jargon, especially in verbal or formal written communication. This clash in communication styles can lead to confusion and a feeling of disconnect between different generations within the workplace.

The confusion caused by jargon is not merely a matter of not knowing the words. It’s a complex issue tied to generational differences, evolving language, industry specificity, and changing communication preferences. Addressing this requires a conscious effort to foster transparent and inclusive communication that resonates with all members of a team, regardless of their age or background.

The Power of Clear and Direct Communication

The first objective of communication is to be understood. We should seek not to impress but to express.

Only through clear and direct communication can we create a shared understanding among all team members, regardless of their background or experience level. By avoiding unnecessary jargons and focusing on straightforward language, leaders can foster a collaborative environment where ideas flow freely, and everyone feels included.

This approach not only reduces misunderstandings, which can lead to costly mistakes and delays but also boosts productivity by ensuring everyone is on the same page. Clear and direct communication builds trust and empowers individuals to contribute fully, enhancing the overall efficiency and effectiveness of the team. It’s a vital aspect of a healthy and thriving workplace.

Quick Tips for Effective Communication

For Individuals:

1. ?Use simple, straightforward language that is easy to understand: By using language accessible to all, you ensure your message is easily grasped, fostering better understanding and collaboration.
2. ?Avoid using jargon unless absolutely necessary: Jargon can alienate those unfamiliar with it, so it’s best to use it sparingly and only when it adds value to the communication.
3. ?Explain any jargon that you do use: If you must use specialised terms, take the time to explain them, ensuring that everyone can follow along and fully engage with the topic.
4. ?Be patient and understanding if these workers do not understand what you are saying: Recognise that not everyone may have the same background or familiarity with specific terms, and be willing to clarify or rephrase as needed to ensure clear communication.

Recognising the communication preferences and understanding levels of younger colleagues and adapting to their communication styles can foster better relationships and teamwork.

?For Organisations:

1. Streamline communication: Simplifying and standardising communication across all levels ensures that everyone clearly understands messages. This involves removing unnecessary jargon and promoting a culture of open dialogue.
2. ?Mandate inclusive language: Encouraging language that resonates with all employees, regardless of their background or experience, fosters a more inclusive and welcoming environment. This can be achieved through guidelines and regular reminders.
3. ?Implement mentorship programs: Pairing experienced employees with newcomers can help bridge the gap in understanding. Mentors can guide and explain industry-specific terms, facilitating smoother integration into the workplace culture.
4. ?Develop training for effective communication: Offering regular training sessions on effective communication techniques ensures that employees at all levels are equipped to express themselves clearly and understand others. This includes workshops on avoiding jargon and using clear, concise language.

Engaging with a professional executive coach can help develop personalised strategies for clear and effective communication. This includes understanding when and how to use jargon and convey complex ideas in an accessible way.

The Last Word: Take the Jargon Out of Conversations

Effective communication is about clarity and understanding. Jargons do just the opposite by confusing the other party. To bridge the communication gap in the workplace, cut out the jargon and embrace simplicity. It’s not about impressing with complex words but expressing in a way that resonates with everyone.

Cut out the jargon to reduce communication barriers at the workplace.

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Smita D Jain is a Certified Executive Coach, Personal Empowerment Life Coach and NLP Practitioner. Smita’s ‘Empower Yourself’ Executive Coaching Programs enable introverted executives to speak with confidence and communicate with impact so that they emerge leaders faster than envisaged. You can learn more about Smita’s ‘Empower Yourself’ Coaching Programs by visiting www.lifecoachsmitadjain.com, and book a complimentary strategy session with her at https://www.lifecoachsmitadjain.com/booking

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