Say NO to business jargon
What does it all mean?
A-C D-G H-L M-Q R-ZFrom Action item to Zero-tasking, here's a list of our "favourite" jargon. When someone starts talking about "running things up flagpoles" and "closing the loop", you’ll know what they're on about!
Ramp up
Sounds as though could be something to do with BMXs, skateboards or something else reasonably interesting. It isn't. Actual meaning: To increase activity.
Reinvent the wheel
This is clear enough, but like most business jargon, can be put in much simpler terms. Actual meaning: To needlessly repeat a task.
Ring fence that idea
The bronze medalist in annoying business jargon terms, it is almost a contradiction in terms, as it actually halts creativity. Actual meaning: Put that idea to one side and do not discuss any further for the time being.
Run it up the flagpole
One of the more bizarre examples of business jargon. Actual meaning: To find out what people think of a new idea.
Shotgun approach
Why are business people so intent on talking about guns, bullets and shooting? Actual meaning: A broad and unspecific strategy.
Starter for ten
Surely the only piece of business jargon to have its roots in a television quiz show for students? Actual meaning: To begin a process or discussion.
State of the art
Another of the less offensive and annoying terms. Actual meaning: Very modern and high end product.
Strategic direction
'Strategic' almost warrants its own separate inclusion in this glossary, seeing as in business it is used to 'add' gravitas to the most simple of plans, most often within the marketing department. Actual meaning: Medium to long-term plan of action.
Thought shower
One of the more surreal entries in the glossary, perhaps people have a thought shower after a brain dump? Actual meaning: An exchange of creative ideas.
Timeframe
The single most superfluous piece of business jargon in this glossary, it is completely and utterly a waste of air. Actual meaning: When something takes place.
Touch base
Could this be another sporting term that has wormed its way into business, something to do with baseball perhaps? Actual meaning: To get back in contact with someone about something.
Uplevel / Upskill
A classic example of a business jargon phrase that adds nothing of value whatsoever. Actual meaning: To improve one's self.
Upshot
Nothing to do with guns, magic bullets or even a shotgun approach. Actual meaning: Result of something, usually a beneficial one.
Value proposition
A term guaranteed to leave a majority of people befuddled and bewildered, more often than not including whoever said it. Actual meaning: The qualities your product/service offers.
Vanilla
The most unfair term on the list, given that as an ice cream it is without peer. Actual meaning: Basic, lacking in flavour and style.
Zero-tasking
The polar opposite of multi-tasking, but is equally irritating. Actual meaning: Doing no tasks whatsoever.
Tell us your favourites
Do you have a personal favourite? If so, let us know and we'll add it to our list.
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