I collect phrases. Lately, one of my favorites appears to be starting my sentences with 'For me,...' (as some obvious indication that I am not speaking for someone else). I am aware of this one, and the rest of my collection, because I have some funny folks at work who regularly share their running list with me. So I've been on the lookout for an offense of overuse in my conversations (occasionally stopping mid stream to call it out before someone else can) and paying more attention to what I want people to hear.
If you want to talk lists, there is seemingly endless list of corporate jargon available daily in every meeting, call, email, and hallway conversation. Every few weeks, a new word or phrase finds itself onto the list to make its rounds. This point is not particularly insightful, in fact, it's so often talked about that it's become comedy, even to those who are regular users. There's plenty to read on the topic; semi instructional, sarcastic, extra sarcastic,and New York Times worthy, all pointing out that the trend must stop, but like any habit, we know it's bad for us but can't (or won't) kick it.
Are we to the point where we aren't even sure what we're saying? Not once, but twice, in a month or so, I've heard the phrase 'drank the Kool-Aid' used in reference to an individual or group. I believe it was intended to mean 'got with the program' or 'finally came around', but I was struck by the fact that the presumably positive usage has such an incredibly negative root. I am sure that the connection to the mass suicide/murder at Jonestown wasn't made in those conversations or intended in the references, but (for me) was a clear indication that it's time to slow down and take our words seriously.
Communicating effectively starts with words. As a leader, the power of words needs to be appreciated, and the result of the reckless use of them cannot be underestimated.
As you head into your week, focus on breaking down your conversations into words. It's easy to waste them, take them for granted, misuse them. To help you along the way, start with a couple of easy tricks:
- Have someone share their list with you; if they don't have one (but I bet they do), ask them to create one. You will be amazed at how little you know about your own word habits.
- Make your own list. When you hear a phrase or a word that is either overused, misused or just doesn't make sense, write it down. This will make you more aware when you commit the same offense.
I'll share my lists. Feel free to share yours. Instead of just writing or reading about what needs to change, it's time to change.
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