Words Matter

Mr. Carlos Soto, the Army Symbologist & Terminologist, and Dr. Elena Wicker discuss the differences and similarities of jargon, terminology, and buzzwords. Additionally, they discuss how leaders can create a culture of shared understanding and openness of ideas simply by the words that they use. I think that leaders at all levels should listen to this. Especially Dr. Wicker’s comment about why writing persists in being bloated because junior personnel (at all levels) feel compelled to include the buzzwords and phrases they hear their superiors use in their communications. Mr. Soto also raises the good point that when acronyms are used and not explained, some personnel may not understand what is being said, but are afraid or embarrassed to ask. This can lead to a failure to fully understand the task. I also feel that planners should definitely listen in order to understand and reinforce the notion that writing, especially of mission orders, needs to avoid non-standard words/phrases and ensure that tactical tasks have been validated against the proper doctrinal source. https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/breaking-doctrine/id1522992251