Start studying vocabulary again
by Nadira A. Hira - CNN Money
[ Commentary by Meryl K. Evans, Editor ]

According to this CNN Money article, research shows that most execs score high on the vocabulary scale. While managers score above average, they don't do as well as the execs. Yet, I've read many articles that say management goes too far with the jargon and big words. So what's an exec to do?

I think the answer lies in finding a balance. For example, when giving a presentation, throw out vocabulary words where appropriate — but not on every slide or every sentence. Practice using one word in a sentence instead of a few fancy ones. Watch for the line between show-off and impressive by practicing a speech or letting someone else review an email or letter and ask for feedback.

I try to stay on top of vocabulary by doing "Word Power" in every issue of Reader’s Digest. I brush up on forgotten words and learn new ones. It’s a nice way to exercise the vocabulary muscles, considering the issue comes monthly and contains only a handful of words (just right for the busy person).

I’ve had managers on both ends of the vocabulary spectrum and don’t think less or more of them because of that. How does having a greater knowledge of vocabulary affect a manager?