If you want to connect better say goodbye to these 9 jargon-filled habits

There’s a world of difference between connecting with people and just talking at them. The key lies in the language we use.

Jargon, or professional lingo, while handy at times, can create a barrier, making others feel left out or confused.

If you’re looking to truly connect, it’s time to ditch those jargon-filled habits.

In this article, I’m going to share 9 common habits you might not even realize you’re guilty of. Let’s learn how to communicate more effectively, simply by changing the way we speak.

1) Speaking in acronyms

We’ve all been in a conversation where someone drops an acronym, and we’re left scrambling to figure out what it means.

Acronyms may be a quick and easy shorthand for those in the know, but for anyone outside of your specific field or industry, they can be alienating and confusing.

The problem is, we often don’t even realize when we’re doing it. Acronyms become so ingrained in our professional language that they slip out without us even noticing.

But if you want to truly connect with people, it’s time to start being more mindful of your language.

So next time you’re tempted to drop an acronym into the conversation, take a moment to explain what it means instead. Not only will this help others understand you better, but it demonstrates respect for their knowledge and experience.

And remember, good communication isn’t about showing off how much you know – it’s about making sure your message is understood.

2) Overuse of industry buzzwords

I’ll never forget the time I attended a tech conference and found myself lost in a sea of buzzwords. It felt like everyone was speaking a different language, even though we were all in the same industry.

Terms like ‘disruption’, ‘synergy’, and ‘innovation’ were being thrown around so casually, but I realized that not many people could explain what they actually meant.

And it wasn’t just me who felt this way. I remember standing in line for coffee and overhearing a group of attendees joking about playing ‘buzzword bingo’.

That experience taught me an important lesson. While buzzwords might make us sound smart or on-trend, they can also alienate and confuse our audience.

So now, I make a conscious effort to avoid them. Instead, I try to explain concepts in simple, straightforward language that anyone can understand.

Remember, clarity is king when it comes to effective communication. And nothing kills clarity faster than a buzzword-filled conversation.

3) Using complex words when simple ones will do

Did you know that the average adult has a reading level equivalent to a 9th or 10th grader? That’s according to the National Assessment of Adult Literacy.

This doesn’t mean that people can’t understand complex language. But it does mean that when we use unnecessarily complicated words, we risk losing our audience’s attention and comprehension.

Next time you’re tempted to use a fancy word like ‘utilize’, stop and ask yourself if ‘use’ would convey the same meaning.

Strive for simplicity in your communication. It might not sound as impressive, but it’ll ensure your message is understood – and isn’t that the point?

4) Relying on filler words

We’ve all been guilty of this one. Filler words like “um,” “like,” and “so,” sneak into our conversations more often than we realize.

The problem with filler words is that they can make us come across as unsure or unprepared. Even worse, they can distract from our main message and make us harder to understand.

Becoming aware of your filler words is the first step to eliminating them. Try recording a conversation or presentation and listen back to it. You might be surprised at how often these words crop up.

Once you’re aware of your filler words, practice pausing instead of using them. It might feel uncomfortable at first, but with time, you’ll come across as more confident and articulate. So say goodbye to your “ums” and “likes” and hello to clearer communication.

5) Speaking in absolutes

Using terms like “always,” “never,” “everyone,” or “no one” can be a communication pitfall. Not only do these words rarely reflect reality, but they can also come across as dismissive or overly dramatic.

For example, saying “Everyone knows that…” might make someone who doesn’t know feel ignorant or excluded. It can also close off any room for discussion or debate, which isn’t great if you’re aiming for an open and engaging conversation.

Instead, try using more inclusive language like “most people,” or “in my experience.” This gives you room to express your point of view, without shutting down others’.

Remember, effective communication is about creating a connection. And speaking in absolutes is a surefire way to put up barriers instead of building bridges.

6) Neglecting the power of storytelling

When I lost my grandmother last year, I realized how much her stories had shaped me. They weren’t just tales; they were life lessons wrapped up in engaging narratives. It struck me then – the power of storytelling.

We often get so caught up in facts, figures, and jargons that we forget the most powerful communication tool we have: our stories. They have a unique way of making even the most complex ideas relatable and memorable.

So next time you’re trying to get a point across, consider sharing a story. It could be a personal experience, an anecdote, or even a case study. Not only will it help your message resonate better, it’ll also create a deeper connection with your audience.

After all, as humans, we’re hardwired to connect through stories. So why not make the most of it?

7) Ignoring the power of silence

I used to be scared of silence. In conversations, I’d rush to fill any pause, believing that silence was a sign of discomfort or disconnection. But over time, I’ve come to understand just how powerful silence can be.

Silence gives us space to think, to process what’s been said, and to formulate a thoughtful response. It can also show respect for the other person’s thoughts and feelings, giving them room to express themselves without interruption.

So next time you’re in a conversation, don’t rush to fill the silence. Embrace it. You might find that it leads to deeper understanding and more meaningful connections.

8) Using passive voice

When we use passive voice, our sentences often become more complicated and harder to understand. It can also make us seem less confident or assertive, as if we’re trying to avoid taking responsibility for our actions or decisions.

For example, instead of saying “The project was completed by our team,” try saying “Our team completed the project.” The second sentence is not only clearer, but it also shows more ownership and agency.

So, make a conscious effort to use active voice in your communication. Not only will it make your message clearer, but it will also help you come across as more confident and decisive.

9) Not listening

At its core, communication is a two-way street. However, more often than not, we focus so much on what we’re saying that we forget to listen to what others are saying.

Listening isn’t just about being quiet while the other person talks. It’s about truly understanding their perspective, acknowledging their thoughts, and responding thoughtfully.

So if there’s one jargon-filled habit you need to say goodbye to, it’s not listening. Because the most effective communication happens when we listen as much as we speak.

Communication: More than just words

The art of communication extends beyond mere language and vocabulary. It taps into the core of human interaction, understanding, and empathy.

The philosopher Ludwig Wittgenstein once said, “The limits of my language mean the limits of my world.” If we limit ourselves to jargon and complex terminology, we limit our ability to connect with others.

But when we commit to clear, authentic, and jargon-free communication, we broaden our world. We open doors to deeper connections, mutual understanding, and shared experiences.

So reflect on your communication habits. Are they serving you well? Or are they creating barriers between you and the people around you?

Remember, when it comes to effective communication, simplicity is often the key. Because at the end of the day, it’s not about impressing others with our knowledge – it’s about making a connection. And that connection is what truly enriches our world.