Use Simple Language
Why do we use big words? Do they make us feel smart? Do they
cover-up insecurity? Whatever the reason, using complicated language to
demonstrate competence is our enemy. It is a certain way to lose the
audience’s attention. Here are three things to keep in mind when
considering which words to use.
- Big words are out. All great speeches,
advertisements and modern persuasive writing use common everyday language.
- An audience adores someone who can make something
complicated seem very simple. If you have a complex or technical
message to communicate first try it out on the most junior person you can
to evaluate if it communicates.
- Get to the main point fast. If you don’t,
you’ll lose your audience.
"Don't use words too
big for the subject. Don't say 'infinitely' when you mean 'very'; otherwise
you'll have no word left when you want to talk about something really
infinite." C. S. Lewis
