Business Buzzwords...

A buzzword is a word or phrase used to impress, or one that is fashionable. Here is a guide to some of the most popular buzzwords used in business. Buzzwords are important to learn, but, like idiomatic expressions, they often go quickly out of fashion. However, these buzzwords have been around for a while and have become much more common in everyday conversations. I recommend students learn buzzwords so that they can understand articles and conversation. However, if you don't feel comfortable using these idiomatic expressions, feel free to use other synonymous vocabulary.
Each buzzword has a definition and two example sentences to provide more context.
buzzword = (noun) An expression that is extremely popular at the moment used to describe new developments in business. Buzzwords often have a very short life.
He uses too many buzzwords. I don’t think he actually knows what he’s talking about!
Be careful not to use buzzwords in your presentation. These aren’t professionals.
face time = (noun) Time spent with another person
Can we get some face time this week? It seems like we haven’t seen each other in a long time.
I need some face time with Doug to discuss the project.
outside the box = (adjective) Concepts that are not usual in a specific business, innovative ideas.
Let’s have some outside the box thinking on this project.
Our outside the box specialist is Tom. He comes up with all of the most innovative ideas.
win-win = (adjective) Good for everybody involved.
The project will be win-win for everybody involved. There’s no loser on this one.
We’re looking for a new partner in a win-win proposition.
disruptive innovation = (noun) Something that completely changes an industry, usually making product much cheaper.
Many think that education is going through a phase of disruptive innovation these days.
Every successful company needs to worry about disruptive innovation taking market share.
synergy = (noun) Interaction of two or more companies which produces a product or service which both can not provide alone.
Just think of the synergy between our two companies!
If we work together the synergy will help each of our companies gain market share.
push the envelope = (verb phrase) To challenge the accepted way of doing things to grow beyond the current capability.
I want you to push the envelope on this project. There is nothing that should be left out.
I asked Tim to push the envelope on the product design. You might find it strange, but I think it will be successful.

milestone = (noun) A very important metric such as sales, new accounts, etc.
We’ve reached our yearly milestone four months early!
I like to set specific milestones for each month to help me keep on track.
streamline = (verb) To improve by combing functions and reducing waste.
We need to streamline our marketing efforts in Asia.
How can we streamline production?
exit strategy = (noun) A strategy used by a business to sell off the company for profit.
Our exit strategy is to be bought out by Facebook or another social network.
Do you have an exit strategy for your company?
diversity = (noun) Different perspectives brought to a situation by having opinions from a wide range of people from different backgrounds.
Our company prides itself on the diversity of its staff.
I think we could use more diversity in this company if we want to go with the times.
proactive = (adjective) Someone or some action that tries to solve potential future problems or situations before they occur.
We need to be proactive about the Smith account. Otherwise, they'll find a new advertising agency.
We like to hire employees that are proactive in online conversations with customers.
If you liked these buzzwords, learn these internet buzzwords to further your understanding of how buzzwords are used in English.