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The ultimate insult in the corporate environment is to call an idea or a speaker “academic.” This implies the speaker is in an “ivory tower,” out of touch with reality, or being speculative. Or, the ideas proposed are too general to be useful. Or, the emphasis is on “knowing,” and not “doing.”

This insult is problematic because it intends to put down the receiver, and fosters conflict. If the idea is to release emotion, it will work! Both parties will exchange barbs and stray from the topic. For me, the worst thing about this insult: there is no clear call to action. And it does not reveal the real problem.

• Is the proposal unclear? Does the listener not understand? Which portions are unclear?
• Does the listener not believe the speaker? Is this a visceral reaction or is there data that shows a different picture?
• Does the listener not agree with the speaker? Why? Its usually one of the above points?
• Is the proposal not practical or not feasible? Are there specific capabilities missing? Is the proposal premature?

It also insults the real academics, whose value add is increasing the body of knowledge, to improve understanding, and drive “doing” from a foundation of awareness, as opposed to ignorance.