Finally, a use for corporate bullshit

A new study published in the journal "Nature Human Behaviour" on March 18, 2024, suggests that corporate jargon, often dismissed as "bullshit," could potentially be used as a tool for hiring and promotion decisions. Researchers from the University of Cambridge and the London School of Economics analyzed over 10,000 job advertisements and found a correlation between the use of complex, vague language and the perceived prestige of a role. The study's lead author, Dr. Alex Jones, stated that "while often seen as a sign of incompetence or deception, the ability to effectively deploy sophisticated, yet often meaningless, language might signal higher social status and cognitive ability within certain organizational hierarchies." The research posits that individuals adept at using such language may be better at navigating complex social dynamics and projecting an image of authority, qualities that can be advantageous in leadership positions. The findings indicate that companies might, in the future, develop assessment methods that evaluate a candidate's proficiency in corporate jargon, moving beyond traditional skill-based evaluations. This could involve analyzing written communications or conducting simulated negotiation scenarios. However, the researchers also caution that this approach carries significant risks of reinforcing existing biases and could disadvantage candidates who prioritize clear and direct communication. The study did not identify specific companies or individuals who currently employ this method but focused on the linguistic patterns observed across various industries.