The mystery of jargon.

Beware of the jargon trap. Use it to your advantage but remember it may expose your flaws.

I love traveling. What I like the most about traveling is the discovery part. Uncovering new cultures, people, food, drinks, and different ways of doing ordinary stuff makes me tick. The trick is to assimilate. However, if you can’t speak the local language or dialect, you will stand out. The community will label you as a foreigner.

Years ago, I worked in the medical devices industry. More specific the cardiology sector. As with any specialized industry, it has its way of doing things. Let us call it a subculture that one needs to discover. Cardiologists have their way of communicating, their specific jargon. If you can’t speak the language, they will not invite you to the table. Luckily I am a fast learner. Some may call it fake it till you make it.

When looking at the start-up or entrepreneurial world, many may believe the same is true in this community. You will become an outcast if you don’t use words like agile, disruptive, or innovation. Furthermore, you won’t attract attention if you don’t use these words. Well, that is what the new kids on the block believe.

Bottom line: Jargon is a trap. If you can’t back it up with action, you will become the emperor without clothes.