18 Insufferable Business Clichés We Need To Stop Using Today

“To be fair.” – A phrase than can be omitted 100% of the time, as its overuse has removed all meaning.

Try this: “I like him” instead of “to be fair, I do like him”

“Take it offline.” ​​– What’s the point of using this phrase when you should be specific about the follow up anyway?

Try this: “Let’s discuss at our meeting tomorrow, I’ll drop by your desk later, etc.”

“Move the needle.” – Instead of using this phrase, dive straight into the action points.

Try this: “We need to try [x] if we want to turn a profit by the end of the year” instead of “We need to try something different if we want to move the needle”

“No-brainer.” – It may be a no-brainer to you, but not to others. Also, it can sound condescending at times as well.

Try this: “This is a step I believe we must take because [X].

“My door is open.” – Are you actually as accessible as you claim? If you are, then be specific with your offer.

Try this: “I’m happy to discuss this in person tomorrow.”

“Moving parts.” – Sounds like a copout, is a copout. Take the time to explain your dilemma, they’ll understand.

Try this: “We don’t have the resources to take on this project at this time” instead of “There are just some moving parts right now”

“At the end of the day.” – This is just the worst, and we’re all guilty of it. Can we just cut this out of our vocabulary already?

Try this: Simply don’t use this phrase. Your point will turn out to be the same, trust me.

“Raise the bar.” – Is there a business out there that doesn’t want to raise the bar?

Try this: “Introducing this product will without a doubt elevate our offerings above that of our competitors” instead of “We need to raise the bar if we want to be heard”

“I have a lot on my plate.” – Is that roast beef or mash?

Try this: I’ve been very busy.

“Give it 110%.” – A pep talk so inane that it’s better off not saying anything at all.

Try this: As always, I expect great things from everyone on this project.

“Manage expectations.” – Another copout.

Try this: I’m not ready to take this on. ​​​​​​

“Think outside the box.” – It’s simply overused.

Try this: How can we get a fresh perspective on this issue?

“Circle back.” – This is another way of saying that the meeting you just attended accomplished nothing.

Try this: We’ll revisit this next week. In the meantime, please prepare by [X].

“On my radar.” – Another way of saying that you’re aware of the issue, but will make no effort to address it.

Try this: I’m aware of this, but unfortunately cannot take action until [X].

“Low hanging fruit.” – Again, it’s important to be aware of others’ interpretation of your point.

Try this: This is a great opportunity for us to get out there without expending the normal amount of resources because [X].

“Throw under a bus.” – No one’s trying to commit first-degree murder here. Let’s put aside the melodrama and get to the point.

Try this: This puts me in a disadvantaged position because [X].

“Bite the bullet.” – Another archaic saying that makes no contextual sense.

Try this: This is time sensitive, so we need to take action despite the complications.

“With all due respect.” – By using this phrase, the person knows that you’re about to disrespect them. Speaking your mind in a direct manner will eliminate and preconceived notions of what you’re about to say.

Try this: Don’t use it.