Simplifying Policies

The Delightful Simplicity of Simplifying Policies: Say Goodbye to Jargon Confusion!

September 21, 2023

Today, we're diving headfirst into the wild world of policy writing, where the only thing thicker than bureaucracy is the language itself. Brace yourselves, because we're about to uncover the secret sauce that transforms bewildering legalese into policy gold: plain language! 🏅

I’m here to tell you that writing policies in plain language is the real deal. It's like adding a sprinkle of fairy dust to your policy-making wand. 🧚So, let's break it down, one hilarious point at a time:

1. Jargon is a Buzzkill: Imagine reading a policy that sounds like it was written by a secret society of lawyers who speak only in riddles. You might as well be deciphering ancient hieroglyphics. Using jargon in policies is like sending a text message in Wingdings – nobody understands it. 😖

2. Plain Language is a Breath of Fresh Air: Let's face it; nobody likes to read policies, but we have to. When policies are written in plain language, it's like a cool breeze on a hot summer day. It's invigorating and won't have you reaching for the nearest stress ball to squeeze the frustration away.

3. Accessibility Matters: Plain language policies are the great equalizer. They ensure that everyone, from the intern who just graduated high school to the seasoned executive, to those that may not have grown up speaking English, can understand what's going on. It's like handing out dictionaries at a spelling bee – everyone gets a fair shot. 

4. Misinterpretation is a Recipe for Disaster: When policies are packed with jargon, misinterpretation is just a stone's throw away. It's like playing a game of telephone with your career on the line. Plain language policies eliminate the guessing game, saving you from those embarrassing "Oops, I misread that!" moments. 🫤

5. Laughs Over Legalese: Want to inject some humor into the workplace? Start by translating that mind-numbing jargon into plain language. People might just start chuckling during meetings instead of rolling their eyes. Who knew policies could be comedy gold?

6. Don't Be a Buzzword Bandit: You know that coworker who constantly drops buzzwords like "synergy" and "paradigm shift" without saying anything of substance? Jargon-filled policies are the equivalent of that coworker in document form – all show, no substance. Plain language policies are the anti-buzzword remedy!

7. Banishing Bureaucratic Blah-Blah: Plain language is your ticket to banishing bureaucratic blah-blah. Say goodbye to "heretofore," "notwithstanding," and "hereinafter." It's like decluttering your office – suddenly, everything makes sense, and you feel like a productivity guru.

So, there you have it, fellow policy enthusiasts – the undeniable value of writing policies in plain language. It's the key ingredient to crafting policies that don't make your employees want to run for the hills. 🏃 Plain language policies are the superhero cape of the corporate world, swooping in to save the day and make the workplace a little less dreary.

Next time you're drafting a policy, remember: Plain language is your secret weapon. Embrace it, banish the jargon, and watch as your policies become the talk of the office – for all the right reasons! 👍🌟