71% Workers Prefer Ditching Corporate Jargon, Says LinkedIn-Duolingo Report

Have you ever felt like you were solving a riddle when corporate jargon was thrown at you? Have these idioms helped or hindered work clarity and productivity? 

A new report released by professional networking social media platform LinkedIn and the language learning app Duolingo says that 71% of Indian professionals prefer ditching or minimising the use of workplace jargon. 

This report was conducted by Censuswide, a research company based in London to help foster an inclusive workspace. The report surveyed 1099 workers in India above 18 years between April 19, 2023 and April 27, 2023. 

1 in 3 Indian professionals are overwhelmed by jargon

Phrases such as ‘keep me in the loop' (keeping someone informed or updated on a topic), ‘core competency' (capabilities that are one's defining strength), ‘win-win situation' (results that are favourable for all the parties involved), among others, overcomplicates communication leaving some workers misunderstood at their workplace. 

While 37% of millennials and GenZ professionals admitted to feeling left out of conversations, 81% also of them believe that workers with a sound understanding of workplace jargon are able to get ahead in their careers. But 88% of those working remotely struggled with workplace jargon as compared to those working in office. 

Further, the study shows that using corporate jargon is second nature to 39% of millennials and 36% of GenZ workers. Moreover, "they're so used to jargon, that they barely know they're using it", says the report. 

In order to ease communication at workplaces, LinkedIn and Duolingo suggested using language that is simple and culturally appropriate. "For example, instead of "let's get our ducks in a row before this meeting" try replacing it with simpler language like "let's prepare and get organised before this meeting." Simplifying language at work helps create and equitable culture and fosters inclusivity." 

When it comes to perceptions of the need of using jargon, nearly half of Indians think that people use jargon because it makes them feel professional, 42% feel that it makes them smarter, while 33% feel like they're in the know. On the other hand, 80% of professionals also feel that they were forced to figure out the jargon at their workplace on their own.

"Linguistic habits and preferences vary greatly in India and across the world. So, when you're working with teams that have different functions, are spread across borders, or come from diverse cultures, it's crucial to use simpler and more inclusive language so there's less or no room for misinterpretation. By avoiding too much jargon and using clear language, we create an environment where everyone feels more included, which leads to greater productivity, stronger teams, and a positive work culture." said Nirajita Banerjee, LinkedIn Career Expert and India Managing Editor.