Internal Communications Jargon: What to Avoid & What to Say Instead

Ah, internal comms jargon - we all know it, we’ve all used it, and we’ve all cringed at it. 

Those buzzwords that seem to make messages sound important but leave employees, especially those on the frontline, scratching their heads or tuning out. It’s time to say goodbye to corporate-speak and start communicating in a way that everyone actually gets.

If your message sounds more like a boardroom presentation than a clear instruction, it’s time to simplify. Let’s explore why jargon falls flat and how you can make your messages more effective with an employee communications app.

Why internal comms jargon can backfire

Corporate jargon might seem like the “right” way to communicate, but it often does more harm than good. According to SHRM, excessive jargon can alienate employees who don’t understand these terms, leading to misunderstandings and feelings of exclusion. When a message feels more like a cryptic code than practical instruction, people might tune out. And for frontline employees who need clear, actionable information, jargon can feel like an unnecessary obstacle that gets in the way of doing their job.

Studies have shown that using too much jargon can erode trust in management (SHRM, HCAMAG). Employees may see it as a barrier that makes leadership seem disconnected or overly formal, leading to a sense of mistrust. In diverse workplaces, where employees come from different backgrounds and might not fully grasp specialized language, jargon can add layers of complexity that make people feel disconnected or undervalued (Thought Farmer). 

The result? Reduced engagement, lower motivation, and, over time, increased turnover (Scientific Research Publishing).

The trouble with jargon in internal comms with frontline employees

For frontline employees, time is everything. They’re on the move, often working on mobile devices, and they need communication that’s immediate, clear, and easy to understand. When your internal comms message reads more like a business manual than practical guidance, you’re not just wasting time; you’re also creating an environment where employees may feel disengaged or even demoralized.

Think of it this way: a store team receives a message about “leveraging customer engagement synergies” instead of simply saying, “Let’s work on building connections with customers.”

The first is confusing and sounds disconnected from reality, while the second is clear and direct.

When you cut the jargon, you’re not just simplifying the message—you're showing respect for employees’ time and making sure they can do their jobs effectively.

Internal comms jargon: the 20 usual suspects

Let’s call out some of the biggest offenders in internal comms jargon. If you catch yourself using these, try the suggested alternatives for a clearer, more direct approach:

1. Synergy
   Translation: “Work together.” No one in the field needs “synergy” to understand the goal.
2. Leverage
   Translation: “Use.” That’s it. “Leverage” might sound impressive, but it’s not doing any favors here.
3. Circle back
   Translation: “Follow up.” It’s clear, direct, and avoids leaving people wondering when they’ll actually hear back.
4. Empowerment
   Translation: “Support” or “help.” Empowerment sounds nice, but concrete support is what employees actually need.
5. Touch base
   Translation: “Check-in” or “talk.” If it feels like filler, it probably is.
6. Low-hanging fruit
   Translation: “Quick win” or “easy task.” Skip the fruit metaphors and keep it straightforward.
7. Bandwidth
   Translation: “Time” or “availability.” Just ask if they have time—no need for overcomplicated terms.
8. Deep dive
   Translation: “Detailed review” or “look closer.” Save “dives” for the pool, not work tasks.
9. Alignment
   Translation: “Agreement” or “same page.” Clear and to the point, with no corporate twist.
10. Paradigm shift
    Translation: “Big change” or “new approach.” It may sound dramatic, but “big change” says what you mean.
11. Move the needle
    Translation: “Make progress” or “drive results.” Last time we checked, there’s no actual needle moving.
12. Bleeding edge
    Translation: “Latest” or “advanced.” Unless we’re talking surgery, “bleeding” doesn’t belong here.
13. Stakeholders
    Translation: “People involved” or “team members.” Everyone likes to feel included—not “held” by stakes.
14. Granular
    Translation: “Detailed” or “specific.” Granular sounds like a geology lesson. Keep it simple.
15. Scalable
    Translation: “Growth-ready” or “expandable.” “Scalable” sounds techy, but simpler terms do the job.
16. Core competencies
    Translation: “Strengths” or “skills.” Drop the corporate fluff; everyone knows what strengths mean.
17. Quick win
    Translation: “Easy win” or “simple success.” We’re all here for a win—no need to complicate it.
18. Value-Add
    Translation: “Benefit” or “bonus.” Everyone understands a bonus—no need for “value-add.”
19. Actionable insights
    Translation: “Useful tips” or “next steps.” “Insights” can feel abstract; make it clear what you want done.
20. Game changer
    Translation: “Big improvement” or “major change.” “Game-changer” sounds like a slogan - keep it real.

Each of these terms might feel harmless, but they can actually lead to confusion and disengagement. When you’re speaking to busy, hands-on teams, every word counts.

4 tips for avoiding internal comms jargon

1. Use active language
   Swap out “We’re aiming to implement…” with “We’re starting…” It’s clear, it’s immediate, and it doesn’t sound like corporate filler.
2. Cut filler words
   Replace “just wanted to touch base” with “checking in.” Direct language cuts through the noise and keeps it simple.
3. Give examples
   Use real-life examples that make sense for your audience’s role. This helps bridge the gap between concept and action, keeping communication consistent & grounded.
4. Be specific
   Saying “We’re optimizing efficiency” is vague. Saying “We’re improving scheduling” tells employees exactly what’s happening and why. Specific language shows respect for employees’ time and effort.

Wrapping it up: keep it simple for better engagement

When you use clear language, you’re not just getting the message across; you’re making it easier for employees to connect with and act on the information.

Remember, you’re not here to impress with “bleeding-edge” language, you’re here to ensure that everyone gets the message. Aiming for clarity, directness, and relatability shows respect for your team and builds a stronger, more engaged workplace.