Summary of "How to Take the BS Out of Business Speak | Bob Wiltfong | TED"
The TED talk by Bob Wiltfong humorously critiques the overuse and complexity of "business speak" or BS—jargon and buzzwords commonly used in professional settings that often confuse rather than clarify. Wiltfong explains that business speak is a specialized language used primarily at work, often by an elite group, and can exclude or alienate others who are not familiar with the terms.
Main Points and Strategies to Reduce BS in Business Communication:
- Use business speak to Include, Not Exclude
- Avoid using jargon to intimidate or create barriers.
- Be mindful of the "curse of knowledge," where experts forget what it’s like not to know the jargon.
- Provide new employees or outsiders with glossaries or explanations of common terms to foster inclusion.
- Simplify language to build connection rather than distance.
- Express Fresh Ideas Without Relying on Clichés or Big Words
- Question the use of complex terms like "de minimis" when simpler words like "small" or "insignificant" would suffice.
- Recognize that sometimes jargon is used to appear knowledgeable or to fit in, but it can hinder clear communication.
- Avoid stale business clichés that add noise rather than meaning.
- Encourage clear, straightforward communication to make ideas more accessible.
- Be Aware of Cultural and Contextual Differences in Business Language
- Many business phrases have cultural origins that may not be understood globally (e.g., American baseball metaphors or biblical references).
- Some phrases have lost their original meaning or are misunderstood internationally ("drinking the Kool-Aid," "piggyback").
- Recognize and respect regional variations in idioms and expressions to avoid confusion.
- Adapt communication to the audience’s cultural background to improve clarity.
Additional Insights:
- business speak is often dominated by a homogenous group (predominantly white males), reflecting historical power structures.
- Using simpler, inclusive language can democratize business communication.
- Wiltfong humorously illustrates the absurdity of BS with examples and audience participation, underscoring how jargon can obscure meaning rather than enhance it.
Summary of Methodology to Reduce BS:
- Step 1: Use jargon inclusively—explain terms and avoid using them to exclude others.
- Step 2: Replace clichés and complex terms with clear, fresh language that everyone can understand.
- Step 3: Consider cultural differences and origins of phrases to ensure communication is clear across diverse audiences.
By applying these strategies, Wiltfong suggests that business communication can become more transparent, inclusive, and effective, reducing unnecessary confusion and "bullshit."
Presenter:
Category
Business and Finance
