Navigating Jargon in Interviews: Balancing Technical Terms and Clarity

During interviews, particularly in tech and business environments, the careful use of jargon is a delicate balancing act. Jargon can be a powerful tool to demonstrate expertise, but it can also be a barrier if not handled properly. Let's explore when and how to use technical and business jargon effectively in interviews.

The Importance of Limiting Jargon

In interviews, you typically have three key stakeholders: Human Resources, upper management, and a supervisor with practical knowledge of how to perform the job. It's important to use just enough jargon to convey your expertise and ensure that the supervisor understands your capabilities, while avoiding so much that the other participants (HR and upper management) get lost. This approach not only shows your proficiency but also adapts your language to the level of understanding of the audience.

Avoiding 'Tech Jargon' Unless Necessary

It's generally best to avoid 'tech jargon' unless it's absolutely necessary to the conversation. Even if you and the interviewer understand the term, there's no guarantee that others in the room (such as HR or upper management) share the same knowledge or interpretation. Using 'non-tech' terms can help clarify your point and ensure everyone is on the same page.

When to Explain Jargon

Industry-specific terms that are commonly known within your field should not require explanation. However, company-specific jargon or acronyms should be clarified if the interviewer is unfamiliar. It's important to strike a balance between demonstrating your knowledge and making sure that all parties understand your points.

A Real-Life Example of Company-Specific Jargon

During a job interview, I encountered a situation where the interviewer used an acronym that could represent several different things. I inquired about the specific meaning, and the interviewer realized they had fallen into company-specific short-hand. The term referred to an in-house custom application and process that was central to their management system. Since this wasn't something widely documented or advertised, it was crucial that I understood the context to follow the conversation accurately.

Another Example of Inadequate Explanation

At another interview, I faced an obscure software development kit (SDK) that the interviewer assumed I would recognize as a standard tool. However, no two universities in the nation used it, and it was only a standard within that specific organization. Once the interviewer explained the term in one sentence, the conversation resumed, but it was a stark reminder of the importance of clear communication. Failing to understand and articulate the meaning of technical terms can lead to misunderstandings and a negative impression.

The Interviewee's Responsibility

The interviewee also bears some responsibility in ensuring that major terms and acronyms are understood. For instance, the term 'SDK' is a standard acronym in my industry, so it shouldn't need further explanation. However, if an interviewer uses terms that are less common, the interviewee should be prepared to clarify the meaning to ensure mutual understanding.

Conclusion

Effectively navigating jargon in interviews requires careful consideration of your audience and the terms you use. While technical and business jargon can convey your expertise and proficiency, it's crucial to do so in a way that ensures everyone in the room follows along. Understanding your audience and adapting your language accordingly can make all the difference in creating a positive impression and securing the job.