People can get bent out of shape about words. Sometimes, it’s not the words themselves but the overuse or misinterpretation that causes the eye-rolling and sighs. Buzzwords, in particular, seem to have a knack for triggering collective groans. Let’s change that!
Everyone rolls their eyes because the word was so heavily used it lost its meaning. You don’t really hate the word; you hate that corporations said it so much that it now describes free lunches and workplace games rather than what it was originally intended to be. It actually means how employees view your company – and it can’t be bought.
Culture
Culture is about the values, beliefs, and behaviors that shape how people work together. Instead of dismissing it as a meaningless buzzword, focus on cultivating a workplace where authenticity and shared purpose thrive.
Unique
Everyone says they want to be unique, but then they focus too much on what their competitors are doing. They let fear lead instead of going with something new – which leads them to be faux-nique. Most often when companies use the word “unique,” they’re really describing something that everyone else does.
Being truly unique means embracing what sets you apart, not just following the crowd. Instead of striving for superficial uniqueness, focus on authentic differentiation based on your strengths, values, and vision.
Outside the box
This goes hand-in-hand with unique. In my industry, I see countless others putting things into a templated format or a blog writer who took something directly from AI without original thoughts. Ever seen this – “Cheap, Fast, Good – you can only pick two”? Speed is often the priority, which leaves very little room to EVER think “outside the box.” Nothing irks me more than someone challenging me to think “inside the box” when I have given much thought to originality and new perspectives.
Thinking outside the box is about creativity and innovation. It’s about challenging assumptions and exploring unconventional solutions. Instead of treating it as a tired cliché, embrace it as a mindset that fosters fresh ideas and breakthroughs.
Take Offline
Confession: I LOVE when someone wants to take something offline. I can’t stand the use of “reply-all” when others have no desire or need to be included. In meetings, you’ve no doubt been a part of that large group when someone hijacks it with a priority that only affects them. I don’t want to waste anyone’s time as much as I don’t want to waste my own. If anything, I wish I heard this phrase more often.
Taking discussions offline is about respecting everyone’s time and focusing on what truly matters in a given context. It’s a strategic move to ensure efficiency and productivity, rather than getting bogged down in unnecessary details or tangents. Embrace it!
Debrief
Nobody seems to want to look back. But, there’s a famous quote by Teddy Roosevelt – “the more you know about the past, the better prepared you are for the future.” Look back. Reflect. Debrief. It’s the opportunity to celebrate wins (which is rarely done) and learn from missteps and mistakes so they’re not made again.
Debriefing isn’t about dwelling on past failures; it’s about extracting valuable insights and lessons to improve future performance. It’s a proactive approach to continuous learning and development, essential for long-term success in any endeavor.
Give 110%
I get this one. I really do. But, there’s a special meaning for me when it comes to this cliché buzzword. I started my consultancy in 2020. It was going really well, but I was still on the fence of “forever.” The next year, I found an open role for a global company thinking nothing could top this opportunity. Thirty days into the role, I was ready to quit for multiple reasons. I’ve always been proud of my longevity and loyalty to previous employers, but I knew leaving this environment would be wise. I told my husband I wanted to quit, but I knew this was a HUGE financial risk that could impact our family. He’s my partner and his buy-in was important to me. I promised him – I’ll put the full weight of my efforts into my business and give it 110%. Sold!
This isn’t about working yourself to exhaustion; it’s about committing wholeheartedly to your goals and priorities. It’s about channeling your passion and energy into meaningful pursuits, even when the odds seem stacked against you. Instead of viewing it as an unrealistic expectation, see it as a mindset that empowers you to achieve remarkable things.
Buzzwords may carry baggage from overuse or misinterpretation, but they also hold the potential for profound insights and perspectives when approached with an open mind. By reframing our understanding of these words, we can uncover new layers of meaning and unlock fresh possibilities in our personal and professional lives. So, the next time you encounter a disliked buzzword, pause to consider the deeper truths it might reveal. You might be surprised by what you discover.
