The Sanford Berenberg Experience: Message of the Day

Good Morning,

Saturday morning my mother ended up in the emergency room, and her situation deteriorated through the day and into the evening and was admitted. By 4 AM Sunday morning we received a call that she was moved to the ICU and by 5:30 AM another call informed us that she was being prepared for emergency surgery to save her life. The doctor performing the surgery got on the phone and explained what he was planning on doing and what my Mother was up against.

During the phone call I looked at my wife with fear and confusion. I did not understand what the Doctor said. I did not know the gravity of the words he used to describe my Mother's condition and prognosis. I heard the words, but I did not know what it meant. You know I read a lot and spend a lot of time learning, but with everything I have crammed into my brain had little ability to do anything to help me understand this life or death situation.

I felt helpless.

I asked my wife, Karen, to interpret the medical-eze as she seemed more comfortable with what the Doctor said. She then translated for me. The situation was grim, the surgery was needed to my Mom's life, but they felt good that they could get it done. After understanding what was going on, I authorized the surgery to save my Mom's life.

Over my life I have been in many situations where I did not quite understand what was being said, especially when a lot of jargon was being used. It is almost accepted in our day to day life that something we hear or we read is not completely understood, and for the most part, this is expected. We know enough to get by.

In fact, I have read that most industries or organizations have many of their own words used specifically for them, as many as 800 or more specific words. These words, like 'Grip' in the movie industry for someone who works lighting and sound, can mean many different things depending on who hears the words and in what context. It opens the door for a whole lot of confusion.

With my Mom's condition it caused me fear because while I was aware I did not know everything that was said, I also knew that what I did not know could involve her living or dying. The ante was raised VERY high. My eyes teared and my chest tightened with the confusion as the Doctor spoke.

The use of jargon, these specialized words obviously causes confusion for the uninitiated and even for the experienced if they are unfamiliar with the terms. Overuse of jargon itself has been found to be present in some of the worlds most heinous business snafus. Using jargon too often can obfuscate the truth behind perceived meanings and misdirection. Review of memos from Enron and Worldcom show an inordinate amount of jargon used regularly.

Understanding the words spoken and written to us is very important, and can even mean life and death. Had I not authorized the surgery for my Mother, she would have died.

I sincerely hope that the communications you encounter or create are understood by your audience. Using less jargon can help.

The Doctor did a great job, but Mom is still in grave condition, and your prayers are all welcome.

Enjoy!

Sanford Berenberg

Sanford@berenberg.net

http://www.berenberg.net