Don't Let Jargon Hide Your Message

Print View | Html View Written by: caroladams
Total views: 27 | Word Count: 426 | Date: Tue, 25 Oct 2011 | 0 comments


One of the main barriers to business communication, both in writing and in speech, is the inappropriate use of jargon.

Is the reader a member of your company, your organization, your industry or profession? If so, a certain amount of jargon may be appropriate. After all, jargon comes into being simply because it is often the best means of communication among members of a particular group.




The problem arises, however, when we forget that a reader is outside the group, and may not understand our special language. Jargon is a special type of "insider" language designed to communicate easily with other members of a group. So there's no reason why outsiders should know your jargon.

They won't necessarily tell you they don't understand because, ironically, they think they should know! So because of inappropriate language, the message is lost and communication breaks down.

Imagine a cocktail party conversation involving a doctor, a lawyer, an engineer, a plumber, a commercial printer and a rock musician - all using their own professional jargon. What a confusing noise that would produce!

That's exactly the effect you create when you use your professional jargon, your own special "in" language, to readers outside the group. They won't understand, and if they don't understand the words you use, you have thrown up a major barrier to communication.

Helen's Jargon Challenge

Take a sheet of paper and divide it into two columns. Down the left column, list as many of your own jargon terms as you can remember. Keep the list beside you for a few days and add to it as you think of terms. Now, in the right column, opposite each jargon term write a plain language substitute. I don't mean an explanation, but a word or phrase you could actually use in place of the jargon.

If you use a lot of acronyms or initials, don't just write them out in full - sometimes the full phrase is still jargon! Make sure your "translation" is something that outsiders could understand. If in doubt, ask one or two people from outside your field if they understand the words, and if they don't, keep editing until they do.

Now make a point of using these plain language equivalent words and phrases any time you are writing or speaking to anyone outside the group that uses your jargon. You just multiplied the chances of your message being received and understood!

custom dissertation
Source: Don't Let Jargon Hide Your Message
http://www.financebusinessarticles.com

Rating: Not yet rated


More articles in this Category

1 : Learning Italian Based on Your Goals
This article tells you how to design an Italian study plan based on your Italian language learning goals.

2 : Suggestions for Using the Web as a Student
Suggestions for Using the Internet as an University Student

3 : Suggestions for Using the Web as a Student
Suggestions for Using the Internet as an University Student

4 : Best Student Guide for Using the Internet
The Best Study Tips

5 : Ways to Know if Your own Motorhome Towbar Can be Used Out there (Component Only two)

Fine, now allows protect a few complex products. As with every mechanical unit made nowadays, pieces break. Here are some vital areas to pay for specific awareness of although using a pre-trip examination.

6 : 3 Steps to Learning French
This article provides a great three step process for mastering the French language. It will be very helpful for beginner students.

7 : Strategies for Using the Net as an University Student
Suggestions for Using the Web as an University Student

8 : Best Student Guide for Using the Internet
The Best Study Tips

9 : 3 French Language Learning Programs
This article discusses several popular French language learning software programs. Read it before making any kind of software purchasing decision.

10 : Where To RV Throughout Manatoba Canada

Because the geographical heart involving North america, Manitoba is renowned for its remarkable, beautiful scenery, cozy pleasant individuals, and exquisite national traditions. Amazingly, Manitoba has several of Northern Our country's most spectacular seashores as well as tackle people the world over attempting to capture any peek at the regal roman policier bear, just about the most evasive and confronted pets.

11 : Rocket French: A Great Way to Learn the French Language
This article serves as an introduction to the increasingly popular Rocket French program. Enjoy!

12 : Learn How To Converse In Spanish On Your Own In A Matter Of 2 Months Or Less
Anyone who can speak a language different from their own ends up being truly magnetic. They just come out a tad smarter and more confident. Additionally, you gain access to information that you normally wouldn't have access to if you had no knowledge of a certain language. This is one reason why you definitely should give yourself the chance to learn a new one. There's one language that you ought to consider and that's Spanish.

13 : Suggestions for Using the Internet as a Student
Student Guide for Getting the Most Out of the Internet

14 : Tips for Using the Net as a Student
Strategies for Using the Web as an University Student

15 : Strategies for Using the Web as an University Student
Ideas for Using the Internet as a College Student




Pages


Top Authors

usergirl
matthewmcclifford
famous16
dagoldberg
karlvcohen
robertboswell
faulgeorgeson
bharatbookseo
dallysullivan
DeannaE Bey
Categories


160x90 ggad