The power of words in leadership

[WORLD] leaders must stay vigilant about the words and phrases they use. As we step into 2025, it's crucial to reassess our linguistic choices, especially in light of Lake Superior State University's (LSSU) annual Banished Words List. This year's list highlights terms that have become overused, misused, or simply ineffective in professional settings. Let's explore why leaders should pay attention to these linguistic trends and how they can refine their communication for greater impact.

Effective communication is the cornerstone of strong leadership. The words we choose can inspire, motivate, or, conversely, alienate and confuse. In the fast-paced world of business, where clarity and precision are paramount, using outdated or overused language can undermine a leader's message and credibility.

The 2025 Banished Words List: A Wake-Up Call for Leaders

LSSU's 2025 Banished Words List serves as a timely reminder for leaders to reassess their vocabulary. The list includes terms that have saturated business discourse, potentially losing their impact or even becoming counterproductive. Let's examine some of these words and phrases, and consider their implications for leadership communication:

"Cringe": Once a powerful descriptor, this word has lost its punch through overuse. Leaders should opt for more precise language to describe uncomfortable situations.

"Game Changer": This phrase has been applied to virtually every innovation, diluting its significance. Leaders should be more specific about the impact of new initiatives.

"Era": Overused in describing personal or professional phases, this term has become a cliché. Leaders should focus on concrete achievements and milestones instead.

"Dropped": In the context of releasing products or information, this casual term may undermine the importance of strategic launches. Leaders should consider more professional alternatives.

"IYKYK" (If You Know, You Know): This acronym can create exclusivity and confusion. Leaders should prioritize clear, inclusive communication.

"Sorry Not Sorry": This phrase can come across as insincere and dismissive. Leaders should practice genuine accountability and empathy.

"100%": Overuse has stripped this term of its impact. Leaders should provide nuanced, specific feedback instead of relying on this catch-all phrase.

"Utilize": Often used as a more formal alternative to "use," this word can complicate simple ideas. Leaders should embrace clarity and simplicity in their language.

The Impact of Language on Leadership Effectiveness

The words leaders choose can significantly influence their effectiveness and the perception of their leadership. Using outdated or overused language can have several negative consequences:

Diminished Credibility

When leaders rely on clichés or buzzwords, they risk being perceived as out of touch or lacking original thought. This can erode their credibility and influence within the organization.

Reduced Clarity

Overused phrases often lose their specific meaning, leading to ambiguity. In a business context, where clear direction is crucial, this can result in misunderstandings and inefficiencies.

Weakened Emotional Connection

Authentic leadership requires genuine communication. Relying on trendy phrases or insincere apologies like "sorry not sorry" can create emotional distance between leaders and their teams.

Missed Opportunities for Precision

Using vague terms like "game changer" or "100%" misses the chance to provide specific, actionable feedback or describe innovations in meaningful ways.

Strategies for Refining Leadership Communication

To avoid the pitfalls of using banished words and to enhance their communication effectiveness, leaders can adopt several strategies:

Embrace Specificity

Instead of relying on broad terms, leaders should strive for precision in their language. Rather than calling something a "game changer," describe exactly how it will impact the business or industry.

Prioritize Authenticity

Genuine communication builds trust. Leaders should avoid phrases like "sorry not sorry" and instead express sincere thoughts and feelings.

Foster Inclusivity

Acronyms like "IYKYK" can create in-groups and out-groups. Leaders should ensure their language is accessible and inclusive to all team members.

Simplify Language

Complex words like "utilize" often have simpler alternatives. Leaders should opt for clarity and directness in their communication.

Stay Current, But Not Trendy

While it's important to be aware of current language trends, leaders should focus on timeless communication principles rather than chasing the latest buzzwords.

The Role of Continuous Learning in Leadership Communication

Effective leaders recognize that language evolves, and they must evolve with it. This requires a commitment to continuous learning and self-reflection. Leaders should:

• Regularly assess their vocabulary and phrases
• Seek feedback on their communication style
• Stay informed about language trends and their implications in the business world
• Practice adapting their language to different audiences and contexts

As we navigate the complexities of leadership in 2025, the words we choose matter more than ever. The LSSU Banished Words List serves as a valuable tool for leaders to reflect on their language and its impact. By being mindful of overused or ineffective terms, leaders can enhance their communication, strengthen their relationships, and ultimately, lead more effectively.

In the words of leadership expert Cheryl Robinson, "Dismissive phrases like 'sorry, not sorry' undermine a leader's integrity, suggesting a reluctance to accept responsibility or empathize with others. True leadership requires genuine accountability and the ability to connect authentically with team members".

As we move forward, let's challenge ourselves to communicate with clarity, authenticity, and purpose. By doing so, we not only improve our leadership effectiveness but also set a positive example for our teams and organizations.