Many industries use everyday words to mean totally different things. If you are thinking of changing careers or exploring your job options, it is important to research the jargon to avoid costly misunderstandings. Clarifying what a common word is referencing when you are interviewing is a red flag that you may not be a good “fit”. Go to company websites, read the job descriptions, and talk to people who are currently in the same industry. 

When an interviewer for a:

  • Sales job asks you to describe a time when you gave a perfect pitch; he does not want to know about the roof you built on your garage.
  • Tech support position asks how you would problem solve for a bug; he does not want to hear about the time you got bitten by fire ants.
  • Tire Tech asks how to fix a flat, he is not interested in your vocal coach’s suggestions.
  • High-paced executive assistant asks you how you work under pressure when there is only a small window; he does not expect you to say you would call in a construction crew.

While these examples may seem obvious to you, they may not be to someone else.  You look at a job description reflecting on your own experiences. This is a good thing if you are applying for a similar position to one you have held in the past. Learning a new language may not be easy, but it is one of the best things you can do to be a success both in interviews and on the job.

Here are some examples of words that change meaning across industries:

  • Pitch – pitch of a roof, baseball pitcher, sales pitch
  • Spread – Jam, difference in prices, spreading dirt
  • Handle – door, deal with a situation
  • Flat – a flat note, an apartment, a boring color
  • Lead – a potential customer, the main role in a play
  • Sheet – a spreadsheet, a rope used to control sails
  • Board – a governing body, “room and board”
  • Window – an opening on the wall, a specific time slot
  • Bug – a virus, an insect, an issue with software
  • Boot – footwear, a new recruit
  • Flag – raise an issue, a physical flag to wave