Why do we use fancy words or buzzwords? We want to sound smart. In our quest to sound smart, we sound like everyone else, confusing, and unoriginal. I think Matt Damon’s character, Will, in Good Will Hunting is a good example of responding to an MIT student who is trying to impress Skylar with fancy words and embarrass Will’s friend, Chuckie. He says, “Yeah, maybe, but at least I won’t be unoriginal.”
How do you know if your brand message is confusing?
Here’s the litmus test. If you hear people say more often than not, “I read about your business, but explain to me what you do?” or “I don’t quite understand”, it is time to rethink your brand message with simple and direct language.
One final thought.
As you rethink your brand message, look at what makes your brand’s service or product unique. What makes you original? Tell us in simple and direct language. Ready. Set. Go!