Plain Language: Less Jargon and More Connection, with Noom's Head of Content Karin Bilich

The Empathetic Edge Podcast

Have you ever been asked to "circle back" or "put a pin in that" in a meeting? Workplace jargon and buzzwords are the worst! On this episode, hosts Amanda Morin and Talli Dolge talk to Karin Bilich, Head of Content at Noom about the importance of using plain language for effective communication. Karin, a content creator, storyteller, and health tech executive, highlights the power dynamics associated with using specialized language and the exclusionary effect it can have on others.

She emphasizes the need for clear communication in healthcare and why she thinks the integration of health tech is crucial to improve patient experiences and outcomes. Listen in as she provides advice for leaders on how to communicate effectively to make people feel heard, understood, and empowered.

Takeaways

• Jargon and acronyms can create power dynamics and exclude others in the workplace.

• Plain language and understanding the audience are crucial for effective communication.

• User testing is essential to ensure that communication is understood by the intended audience.

• Biases in communication can have a significant impact, and training is needed to address them.

• Effective communication should make people feel heard, understood, and empowered.

• Public health campaigns should aim to empower individuals and address their fears and anxieties.

• Connection, self-awareness, and empathy are crucial in effective communication.

• Clear communication is essential in healthcare, and health communications should be integrated into the patient experience.

• Leaders should prioritize creating a safe environment for communication and focus on achieving buy-in from their team members.

Related Resources:

Five Steps to Plain Language

Plain Language in Business

The Center for Plain Language

About Our Guest:

Karin Bilich is an award-winning executive bridging the gaps between healthcare, health tech, and health communications, Karin's mission is driving healthy behavior change and working towards a world with health equity for all.

Karin has worked for over 20 years as a content creator, storyteller, and health tech executive. Now with a masters in health communication, she is leading the creation of engaging, informative and innovative digital solutions and effective content and communication strategies to improve life outcomes.

Karin is currently the Head of Content for Noom, a well-known behavior change app. She has previously worked in content and communications for Understood.org (a not-for-profit organization aiming to improve life outcomes for neurodivergent individuals), as well as other healthcare and parenting-focused organizations, including Columbia University Medical Center.