The Power of Shared Language for Teams

When we think about what holds teams back, we often point to silos, misunderstandings, or "personality conflicts." But at the heart of all these challenges is often one simple issue: a lack of shared language.

When we think about shared language, I’m reminded of my son’s first lacrosse season this spring. I knew almost nothing about lacrosse — my knowledge of hockey and football only got me so far. To really understand what was happening on the field (and appreciate my son’s talent), I had to learn the language: the plays, the referee signals, and the subtle nuances that shape the game.

The same is true for teams at work. Without a shared language, it’s easy to misinterpret each other’s moves, second-guess intentions, and miss the real progress happening right in front of us. Learning and adopting a common language transforms confusion into connection — and eventually, into high performance.

Bruins Boys JV Lacrosse

Why shared language works

A shared language empowers teams to:

• Name behaviors objectively, instead of personalizing them. ("I notice I tend to prioritize speed, while you prefer thoroughness" instead of "You're always so slow!")
  

• Navigate conflict productively, because they can discuss differences without blame.
  

• Accelerate onboarding and feedback, because new members quickly learn "how we work here."
  

• Strengthen trust, because clarity reduces hidden tensions.

Tools to create shared language for teams

Frameworks like Everything DiSC® and The Five Behaviors® provide this essential language. They're not about putting people in boxes — they're about giving teams a practical, memorable way to understand each other and work together more effectively.

When leaders use these tools intentionally, teams start to "speak the same language" in meetings, during project reviews, and even in hallway conversations. Over time, this language becomes part of the cultural fabric — driving alignment, reducing friction, and increasing speed to results.

A quick exercise for your team

At your next team meeting, ask each person to describe:

1. The working style that energizes them.

2. A behavior from colleagues that frustrates them — and why.

3. What they need from the team to feel at their best.

   
   

Capture the themes and watch how quickly common patterns — and opportunities for shared language — begin to emerge.

Recommended read

For those who want to understand why this matters beyond just team dynamics, I recommend Humble Inquiry by Edgar Schein. It beautifully explores how the way we ask, listen, and talk shapes trust and collaboration — and why shared language is a leadership superpower.

Ready to create a shared language that unlocks your team's potential?

Book a complimentary discovery call today — let’s explore how to embed these tools and frameworks into your daily operations.

What does shared language mean in a team?

Shared language refers to using common terms and frameworks to describe behaviors, expectations, and feedback. It helps reduce misunderstandings and creates alignment across the team.

Why is a shared language important at work?

It ensures that everyone interprets key concepts the same way, which speeds up communication, strengthens relationships, and minimizes friction. It also supports faster onboarding and clearer decision-making.

How do you create a shared language in a team?

Introduce simple, memorable frameworks like Everything DiSC® or The Five Behaviors®. Facilitate discussions to agree on terms and behaviors, and reinforce this language consistently in meetings and daily interactions.