The acronym trap

Acronyms are efficient. Until they’re not.

Inside every industry, team, or function, acronyms become shorthand. We say them without thinking, because we assume everyone else knows them. But that’s the problem.

When someone new joins a workshop or meeting with the potential to add a fresh perspective, contribute their sharp mind, and add real value, acronyms can be an invisible wall they run into.

And just like that, we lose their brilliance.

Not because they don’t have it. But because they feared asking. Feared sounding dumb. Feared it would cost them credibility, or their job.

As a young consultant I used to fear acronyms, because I believed if I didn't know what they were, I'd come across as incompetent and a client would tell my partners they didn't think I was up to the job.

After each meeting where a new acronym came up, I'd race back to the office and ask trusted colleagues what it meant. We had a pact not to disclose our lack of knowledge for fear it would undermine our careers.

Turns out I wasn't alone.

Research has found 25% of workers hesitate to speak in meetings because jargon and acronyms make them feel uncomfortable when they don’t understand them.

Now (that I’m much older!) when I’m in meetings I make a point of asking what each acronym means. Because chances are there’s at least one other person that doesn’t understand either.

Innovation thrives on understanding and collaboration, not language that creates confusion. If you care about harnessing the full creative talent and experience of those you work with, then say the whole phrase. Explain the term. Make the space for understanding.

Because language fails when efficiency beats clarity.