In our attempt to make customers comfortable and bond with them as quickly as possible, we tend to speak to them as we do our friends, relying heavily on slang. This approach feels comfortable to us and we are sure that our clients appreciate how ‘real’ we are with them. At CustomerSkills we are all for being ‘real’, but speaking ‘common English’ can sound just this side of vulgar and worse, if you are looking to move up within your company it will hold your career aspirations at arms-length.

Most people accept that others will judge them based on the way they look, but did you realize that they will judge you based on the words that you use? A well-dressed employee using trashy lingo looks like a wolf in sheep’s clothing. Those who speak proper English are largely considered more well-informed and experienced whether they actually are or not. They are promoted more quickly and are accepted into more social circles.

If those facts ‘piss you off’ a little perhaps you should consider improving your language skills and decide to feel indignant or upset instead.  Then do something to develop your vocabulary. You might fear that changing the words you use will make you seem less like yourself or even phony. Seriously – fear not! Using proper English and expanding your vocabulary will allow you to speak in even more colorful ways showing off your best self while still being ‘real’ with others.

If you want to move up the corporate ladder listen to top managers and key players in your workplace and emulate the way they speak.  Also consider reading more and watching less TV. Books expand your knowledge in a way that watching TV does not. A word of warning: Nothing diminishes your credibility more than using words improperly.  As your verbal flair grows take care not to use a word if you unless you are 100% sure of its meaning.