Jargon: not just a nuisance but a costly mistake!

We are all guilty of using our own special "in language" even with people who can't reasonably be expected to understand it. What we don't realize is that this can cost us money, the most obvious example being lost sales. Helen Wilkie, author of "The Hidden Profit Center", has a remedy.

(PRWEB) March 13, 2004 --We're all guilty. We use the special "in language" of our company, our profession, our industry.

Helen Wilkie, author of "The Hidden Profit Center", says that's fine when the other person speaks the same language, but when we step outside that group using jargon can be costly.

Why do we use jargon?

•   It's often the easiest and most effective way to communicate with others who use the same jargon-colleagues, fellow professionals, members of a club. The problem arises when we step outside the group and forget to leave our special "in language" behind.

Why is jargon expensive?

•   Example: Potential customers go into a shop to buy computer equipment. The salesperson immediately launches into a jargon-laden sales pitch which the customers don't understand. This makes them feel stupid and frustrated, so they leave without buying. Jargon may have cost both immediate and future sales.

How can we correct the problem?

Jargon is insidious. We use it unconsciously, so the first step is to become aware. Wilkie has her clients use a simple tool she calls "Helen's Jargon Challenge". Details can be found on her website at http://www.hiddenprofitcenter.com/profit%20center/pages/hpcarticle2.html

Helen Wilkie is a professional speaker and author who believes communication is not a soft skill. Her frustration with this widespread view led her to write her latest book, "The Hidden Profit Center". After reading this business fable, best-selling author Ian Percy said, "Investing the short time it takes to read The Hidden Profit Center will pay dividends for years to come."

NOTE TO MEDIA: To receive a review copy of the book or to arrange an interview with the author, visit the Press Room at http://www.HiddenProfitCenter.com or call 1-416-966-5023