Forbidden Words: Why Some Terms Are Banned at CPM

Yes, you heard it right, we have a list of words that are forbidden.

This list is not an arbitrary set of vocabulary restrictions; it stems from my belief in the power of precise and meaningful language.

With a strong literature background and decades of experience working with large corporations, I have grown increasingly frustrated with the hollow language that has become common in business environments. Many corporate buzzwords, often born in boardrooms, are repeated so often that they lose all meaning.

I believe in the importance of words—their power to convey specific ideas and their role in building clarity in business communication. Some corporate buzzwords have devolved into nothing more than filler—vague, empty phrases used without true understanding. These words might sound impressive, but in reality, they say very little. Worse, they lead to misunderstandings, lack of transparency, and a dilution of purpose.

The real issue is not just the overuse of these terms but how they distract from the actual content being communicated. They allow their users to hide behind a vague concept rather than addressing a concrete issue. This type of communication does not drive business forward—it stalls progress.

For this reason, I strongly discourage their use.

At CPM, we value clear and effective communication. We refuse jargon and choose words thoughtfully and intentionally. There is no need for fancy, convoluted language when plain and straightforward terms better convey the message. If an idea or message is important enough to be shared, it deserves the right words—specific words that accurately reflect what we want to achieve.

This is why, in my company, certain words are on a "no-use" list. It is not about being overly strict; it is about creating an environment where words matter and where we communicate with clarity, purpose, and sincerity.

Next time, I will share why some other words are also on the "no-use" list.