As leaders, we love our buzzwords. But the truth is that our team often hears something very different than what we intend.
Here are a few examples:
“Let’s be agile”
What we mean: “Let’s stay flexible and responsive.”
What they hear: “We’re changing everything again.”
“Let’s collaborate”
What we mean: “Let’s bring our best ideas together.”
What they hear: “Another meeting.”
“Let’s innovate”
What we mean: “Let’s think boldly and creatively.”
What they hear: “No budget, but lots of ideas.”
“Let’s align”
What we mean: “Let’s make sure we’re on the same page.”
What they hear: “We’re about to rehash everything we already agreed on.”
“Let’s streamline”
What we mean: “Let’s simplify and improve.”
What they hear: “We’re cutting something.”
“Let’s be strategic”
What we mean: “Let’s think long-term.”
What they hear: “We’re going to overcomplicate this.”
(And you can probably think of a lot more.)
It’s not cynicism, it’s context.
Our words land differently depending on what our teams have lived through. If “agile” has meant constant pivots without clarity, or “collaboration” has felt like calendar gridlock, then even the best intentions can trigger eye rolls.
So what do you do?
You lead with empathy. You can earn the trust of your team by pairing your language with action. If you say “agile”, show them the roadmap. If you say “collaborate”, protect their time and clarify purpose. If you say “innovate”, back it up with resources (or at least transparency.)
Ditch the jargon. Buzzwords are easy. Clarity is harder, but far more powerful!
Instead of “Let’s be agile,” try “Here’s what’s changing, and why.”
Instead of “Let’s collaborate,” say “I need your input on this specific decision.”
Instead of “Let’s innovate,” ask “What’s one bold idea we can test this quarter?”
Executive presence isn’t just about how we speak. It’s about how we’re heard. 👂You may recall our tagline at Black Sheep Global is, “Lead. Be Heard.”
Let’s make sure our leadership vocabulary reflects the reality we’re creating, not just the vision we’re selling.
Ready to guide your organization to greener pastures?
Contact Black Sheep Global Consulting today to discover how our expert leadership development training can help your team thrive and stand out in today’s competitive market.