How to Ditch Professional Jargon and Stop Sounding Like a Diploma-Wielding Robot

Public speaking is like going on a first date – you want to impress, but you don’t want to come off as overly complicated. If you use too much jargon or professional lingo, you'll quickly become that boring guy talking about "synergy" while everyone is daydreaming about their next coffee break. Here's how to speak to your audience without sounding like a physics textbook.

Know Your Audience (and Why They Haven’t Run Away Yet)

Before you start talking, ask yourself: “Who are these people, and what am I doing here?” If your audience isn’t a group of experts in your field, there’s no point throwing around terms like "fractal analysis" or "complex systems." Instead, speak as if you're explaining it to a fifth-grader – but don’t underestimate them. Nobody likes being talked down to (not even fifth-graders).

Talk Like You’re Chatting Over Coffee

When you’re with friends, you probably don’t say: “Yesterday, I implemented new strategic initiatives.” Instead, you say: “I tried to figure out how to do things better.” Simple words are like doughnuts – everyone loves them, and they’re easy to digest.

Use Stories – They’re the Real MVP

People love stories because they help visualize what you’re talking about. If you’re explaining something complex, think of a story. For instance, instead of saying “process optimization,” say: “Imagine you commute through chaotic traffic every morning. Now imagine someone builds a flying monorail just for you. That’s optimization!”

Pictures and Graphs: Your Secret Language Without Words

When words fail, switch to visuals. But don’t overdo it – no one wants to stare at graphs that look like a buffet for Excel enthusiasts. Use images that tell a story. Talking about climate change? Instead of throwing numbers at people, show a polar bear on a tiny ice floe. They’ll get the message – and maybe even donate to save the planet.

Ask Questions – But Not Like an Interrogation

Instead of asking “Does anyone know what this term means?” (cue awkward silence), try something engaging like: “Does this make sense, or am I sounding like I’m inventing a new theory of relativity?” Interaction keeps you grounded and shows the audience that you’re there for them – not just for your PowerPoint slides.

Don’t Assume Everyone Knows Everything

Sometimes, we forget that not everyone is an expert in our field. Your audience isn’t to blame for not knowing what a “hyperbolic paraboloid” is – they’re not architects, nor do they need another reason for a headache. If you must use technical terms, explain them quickly, like you’re explaining Monopoly rules to a first-timer: clearly, simply, and with patience.

Test Your Speech on Non-Experts

Run your presentation by someone who has no clue about your field. If they look at you like you just performed a magic trick, you’re on the right track. If they nod and say, “Got it!” you’re ready. Suppose they start dozing off… well, back to square one.

Humor Is Your Best Friend

Nothing refreshes a dull topic like a good joke. For example, if you’re talking about artificial intelligence, say: “Don’t worry, robots won’t replace us. Unless we’re talking about cooking – there, I’ve already lost the battle.” Humour builds bridges and makes you likeable – just keep it simple and inoffensive.

Be Concise (or at Least Try)

If you need to use technical jargon, explain it quickly and clearly. “Blockchain? It’s like a public ledger on the internet, but better because you don’t have to wait hours in line.” Audiences love short and sweet explanations, just like they love quick coffee breaks.

Talk Like a Person, Not a Textbook

At the end of the day, people don’t want to listen to a dull professor droning on with a monotone voice listing facts and figures. They want someone who knows the topic but also knows how to make it relatable. If you speak clearly, simply, and with a touch of humour, your audience will love you – and maybe even reward you with applause. Or at least a smile.

Smart, fun, and simple – that’s how you’ll nail your public speaking game!