CNN posted an interesting article about filling up resumes with empty words that hold people back from being a stand-out candidate.
This reminds us that over-used words should not only be avoided on print, but also in communications delivery. These same tired words need to be ejected from our vocabulary during interviews and presentations.
Everyday we coach mid to C-level executives at CommCore. We find that it is imperative that they weed out mind-numbing jargon. By keeping general, empty catch phrases out of their vocabulary, they will keep the audience’s attention, and avoid turning them off.
We encourage staying away from platitudes at all costs. Phrases like, “I am a people person” and “I’m goal-oriented” are not specific enough. The audience wants to hear specifically about you, not terms and phrases that can describe anyone. The speaker/interviewee needs to steer clear of ‘inside baseball.’ It’s when they get into some industry-specific jargon, acronyms and insider language when the interviewer’s eyes glaze over in order to keep the audience interested the speaker must get to the point and keep the conversation on the topic at hand. If the audience does not have knowledge in the topic of conversation, it’s a lost cause.
Also, the speaker must get out of minutiae. The audience requires conceptually complete, but top-line answers. The greatest evidence of an unprepared speaker is one who drones on.
Communication delivery is as important as what is printed on a resume – in fact, even more important. Avoid over-used words and trite phrases.
Is this an opinion that you agree on? Any comments or other suggestions to keep speakers from using tiresome phrases/words? Any examples of good or bad interviews?