3 Steps in a Language Audit

Multiple definitions for the same sounding word led to confusion and frustration. The same is true in an organization. If important language is not defined over and over again, people construct multiple interpretations of the essential words in an organization. Common terms, without definition, can actually create more confusion than alignment.

Here is how it happens in many settings: A leader or leadership team starts to use a word or phrase, and that word or phrase gains traction in the organization. Others realize that the word is important in the culture, and they start using it to show they are on board or to show how something they are doing fits into the bigger picture. Over time, the word or phrase can lose its original intent and can mean different things to different people. The word is constantly thrown around without any definition, and this gives the false impression of alignment when in fact multiple directions exist.

In a ministry context, this can happen with words like “discipleship,” “gospel,” or “mission.” In any leadership context, this can happen with language used to describe mission or values. Read more