Some business clichés sound good on a poster, but most fall apart under scrutiny. Here are the slogans that these leaders say have got to go.
Spend enough time in business and you’ll start to hear the same clichés on repeat. Some sound good on a poster, but most fall apart when you’re the one leading the team or making the hard calls.
Lessons in business only make sense once you’ve been through it yourself, and the people who get it aren’t fooled by the slogans.
They’ve seen how clichés like “it’s not personal” and “we’re a family” can do more harm than good.
Here’s some insights from some of those that know from their experience.
Among the most used and most manipulative business buzzwords is: “We’re like a family here.” It’s nice-sounding—who wouldn’t enjoy coming to work for an organisation that feels like home? But what usually hides beneath isn’t as it appears to be.
In contrast to an actual family, business is based on performance, timelines, and profit. Employees are encouraged to do more, but loyalty is not always reciprocated. The “family” concept frequently obscures professional boundaries, which makes it difficult for individuals to establish limits, voice concerns, or fight for fair treatment.
It’s a term often used to excuse poor management, low compensation, or unrealistic expectations. Instead of building a robust, professional culture, it induces tension and feelings of guilt.
A healthy workplace is not necessarily labelled as a family. It embraces candour, fairness, communication, and respect for everyone.
So, whenever you hear “we’re like a family,” think twice. Is this a fair, balanced workplace, or is it a cover for excess hours and lack of appreciation?
Certain clichés must be pensioned off. Maybe this is one.
