Jargon junkies are bad for
business
Effective communication is pivotal to the success of any
business, yet new research from ntl:Telewest Business SME division
has shown that the use business jargon is resulting in crossed
wires between colleagues and compromising communication with
clients.
A third of those polled blamed business jargon for their failure
to complete a task, and 3% had actually lost a client through
misunderstandings over the use of business jargon. Two thirds of
workers admitted to using business jargon without always knowing
what it means. Those aged 16-24 are the worst jargon offenders with
a majority stating that they used business jargon in the belief
that it made them sound more credible to their colleagues.
These ramifications are of particular concern for SMEs. Without the
resources and strength of brand that larger organisations have,
SMEs have to punch above their weight to remain competitive and
communication is a key area in which they can do so.
The research also revealed three distinct jargon profiles:
The Straight Talker – never uses business jargon.
This person leaves colleagues in no doubt about their expectations
and what they’re meant to be doing
The Jargon Junkie – uses business jargon
extensively creating a climate of confusion
The Communication Chameleon – doesn’t really
understand business jargon but uses it to blend in.
 |
 |
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| The Straight
Talker |
The Jargon
Junkie |
The Communication Chameleon |
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