Stop Re-wording and Start Listening

The topic might seem trivial to most, but in my experience, it really matters. Small differences in wording can shape communication, influencing clarity and alignment. It’s not just about politeness; it’s a strategic tool for efficiency.

When you start working on a new product or feature in a corporate environment, one of the first things you'll notice in meetings (or documents) is the unique vocabulary used by the people. It might sound to you clunky, inconsistent, or even butcher your preferred language. But here’s the catch: those words carry meaning, history, and context for the people using them. And as a Product Owner, it’s your job to listen carefully and adapt—not to correct.

Keep in mind, words are more than just words.

People don’t pick their terms randomly. These words often originate from years of internal processes, past projects, and shared experiences. They are shortcuts to complex ideas, anchoring discussions to a common understanding. Changing them just because they don’t align with your personal or technical preferences can cause confusion and, worse, create unnecessary friction.

Try to adapt, do not translate.

Your role isn't to impose linguistic order; it's to bridge gaps. When you change the wording, thinking it will clarify things, you might actually lose valuable input. The people that you have in front of you might feel disconnected from the discussion, and subtle nuances could get lost in translation. Even if the new terms make more sense to you, they may not resonate with the people whose buy-in you need.

"It's not what you say; it's what people hear."
- Frank Luntz

This is especially true when you're working on an existing product or feature. The vocabulary has been shaped over time, with layers of meaning attached to specific words. Changing that terminology is like renaming characters in a story halfway through—it disrupts the narrative.

As a Product Owner, you're also a storyteller. The words you choose can either build bridges or walls. Consistency in terminology helps maintain clarity, especially when communicating across teams. Using familiar language ensures that everyone stays on the same page.

Another important aspect is that in global companies, you might encounter terms borrowed from the native language of the organization. It could be a single word that encapsulates an entire process or concept. If you've understood the meaning, why not use it? It shows respect for the culture and acknowledges the shared understanding that already exists within the team.

Over time, as relationships deepen and projects evolve, you might naturally influence the vocabulary. Stakeholders may start adopting some of your preferred terms. But forcing this change too early can backfire. Language should evolve organically; it shouldn’t be a battleground.

So, next time you’re tempted to “fix” the wording in a company or group of people, pause. Listen. Adapt. Because in the end, it’s not just about the words you choose—it’s about the connections you build through them.

• D. Scope