A new list of “overhyped” corporate buzzwords in 2025 by influencer marketing platform Heepsy mentions several terms CFOs are likely using daily.
These idioms, many of which have become red flags for younger employees during their job searches, have entered organizational communications of all types, including all-hands meetings, board meetings, stakeholder meetings, the hiring process and employee evaluations.
Here are eight of the top terms on the list:
1. Fast follow
- 423 million mentions
- 395,500 Google searches
This term, used by Deloitte’s Steve Galucci when discussing CFOs’ approach to AI within the finance function, tops the overhyped list. It defines a strategy based on monitoring peers and quickly adopting a trend.
2. Big data
- 231 million mentions
- 1.1 million Google searches
As CFOs prepare their datasets for new technology integration, the ability to build, analyze and act on large datasets is increasingly important across most businesses. However, the debate over whose data is right continues.
3. AI-powered
- 88.3 million mentions
- 46,700 Google searches
Tradeshows across industries, particularly in finance, have become inundated with companies selling AI-powered technology products. How CFOs manage this trend, especially in determining the value of technology products, will be worth watching for finance leaders and technology developers alike.
4. Internet of things
- 27 million mentions
- 3.5 million Google searches
Though the term defines a network of everyday devices connected to the internet, the rising importance of cybersecurity may be fueling its trendiness. For CFOs, many of whom discuss cybersecurity with board members and stakeholders regularly, familiarity with this term may pay off from time to time.
5. Cloud-first
- 18.6 million mentions
- 5,200 Google searches
As cloud computing and storage use rise significantly, this term’s prevalence is likely to grow as datasets become larger and more utilized. CFOs should also be aware of the growing cost of these services.
6. Future-proofing
- 11.8 million mentions
- 28,200 Google searches
Many business leaders use this term, particularly those looking to build scalable finance functions.
7. Go-to-market strategy
- 6.07 million mentions
- 395,400 Google searches
While this phrase can fall victim to corporate jargon, its popularity may indicate businesses’ increasing focus on launching new initiatives.
8. Edge AI
- 5.55 million mentions
- 171,600 Google searches
This term describes artificial intelligence processing on local devices rather than in a cloud-based environment. As organizations explore customizable AI models and LLMs, its popularity is notable as CFOs continue to implement AI at a slow rate.
Terms were compiled by Heepsy using a total score based on cumulative mentions of the term in article mentions, Google search volume and job listings.
