# 15 Jargons High Achievers Steer Clear Of in Communication
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Understanding High-Performance Communication
In today's business meetings, phrases like "culture," "new normal," and "hacking" often permeate the conversation. It can be frustrating to navigate discussions filled with such jargon when the objective is to make strategic decisions.
People frequently rely on inflated language, which complicates communication unnecessarily.
Imagine attending a meeting where the focus is determining the most lucrative initiative for the upcoming quarter. Instead of engaging in clear dialogue, you hear terms like "impactful," "disrupting," and "greener pastures." These buzzwords fail to deliver substantial insights. Instead, they create ambiguity and detract from the meeting's goal of making informed choices or planning actionable steps. This can lead to prolonged discussions that hinder decision-making.
While we strive to avoid these scenarios, they are often unavoidable. These expressions not only irritate but also act as obstacles to effective communication. This is particularly challenging for non-native English speakers, who may find themselves completely bewildered.
To enhance clarity, it’s advisable to minimize the use of such jargon and rephrase when feasible. Influential figures like Warren Buffet emphasize the necessity of using clear and straightforward language to convey ideas.
Common Jargons and Their Plain English Alternatives
Let’s break down some of these terms:
- Let's take it offline: Discuss this later in a separate setting.
- Circle back: Revisit this topic at a later time.
- Close the loop: Conclude the discussion and clarify next steps.
- Low-hanging fruit: Simple tasks that can be quickly accomplished.
- Win-win: A scenario where all parties benefit.
- Give 110%: Put forth maximum effort.
- Deep-dive: Conduct a thorough examination of the details.
- Drill-down: Analyze specific components closely.
- At the end of the day: In summary or after considering everything.
- Move the needle: Make a significant impact or progress.
- Bring to the table: Contribute your ideas or thoughts.
- Not enough bandwidth: Currently occupied or engaged elsewhere.
- Helicopter view: A broad perspective or overview.
- Best-in-class: The highest quality in its category.
- Push the envelope: Innovate and exceed traditional boundaries.
And, of course, the most cliché of all: "think outside the box," which simply means to generate new and innovative ideas.
In conclusion, rather than leaning on ambiguous and convoluted language, it’s far more effective to communicate in a clear and straightforward manner.