Of Buzzwords and Brevity

Matt at 37signals writes about how buzzwords say all the wrong things, and they do. Too many useless buzzwords make you look like you’re trying to sound smarter than you are. And too many words in general (unneeded words) make you sound insecure.

Clarity and conservation of words is key. I try to preserve that in everything I write and in my speaking. Maybe its the introvert in me, but I’m drained by people who talk incessantly, whether they’re extroverts who have to talk to think or insecure people who feel compelled to talk until they feel you’re sufficiently impressed (which is never). I have plenty of talkative friends (and good storytellers, which I consider the only talkers that don’t drain me), but even after a good time with a talkative bunch, I need time to recharge my batteries.

In my readings, I value most that same clarity. A writer can be verbose or sparce and say a lot or nothing. The two aren’t necessarily connected. My high school journalism teacher told me to “Make Every Word Count,” and that’s what I try to do.

More verbosity coming on different subjects in the next few days. I promise. I’ve been overwhelmed with work, moonlighting and a wedding.