How Shared Language Drives Culture

Going Deeper

There are two major problems that occur as we develop shared language within our culture.

The first is that we are not very intentional about creating our culture. More specifically, we are not deliberate about carefully constructing our communication so that it is clearly shared and understood. And so that it establishes the kind of culture we desire.

Most of our language is borrowed or pieced together from pop culture, other entities we’re comfortable in, or via the biggest personality/leader of our budding culture. For this reason (the latter especially), most sub-cultures in our society are personality driven rather than purpose driven.

I’ve seen it in marriages, friendships, businesses, and churches. All of a sudden, after years of passive-aggressive sparring, it becomes clear that the entity is in a terrible place. “How did we get here?” they ask. The answer is a lack of vision and a lack of intentional communication.

The second problem occurs when shared language is unclear. For example: A company says they are about customer care but the most caring guy in the office gets fired because he had the lowest profit margins. If our vision is vague or confusing or unaligned with our true values, we are not communicating effectively. One or more people within an entity will become frustrated in the absence of clarity.

Correct Course

If you find yourself in an entity that is not sharing language well, there are two simple things you can do to start.

First, determine and discuss your values and vision. If culture is an understanding of what is admirable and what is shameful, a frank and upfront conversation about the goals of the entity will help everyone get on the same page.

Second, determine definitions. What does success mean? How is conflict approached? Wrap some clarity around what really matters. Don’t just settle for the superficial language settings – what TV shows are referenced, how much coffee is for free, etc. – but talk about boundaries and consequences, sharing influence, and the freedom to give feedback and ask vulnerable questions. What word your entity uses to communicate ‘cool’ matters little. Have some conversation about the things that do matter so you might move forward with the commitment and clarity that comes from utilizing shared language to achieve vision.