Do you have a problem with those pesky words that come flying out of your mouth when you can’t think of anything else to say?
They’re filler words or crutch words. The “uh’s” and the “like’s” that buy us a few seconds of thinking time when our mouths try to keep up with our brains or vice versa.
Stopping this habit can be a challenge. But don’t fret. I’m here to share my advice on eliminating filler words for good, which will boost your confidence and credibility.
You can learn more in this video: How to stop using these 10 filler words when public speaking. ▶️
Here’s what you’ll learn in this episode:
✔️ Amplify your voice. Filler words can muffle your message. No matter how passionate you are or how meaningful your mission is, just a few “ums” can diminish your credibility. You’re a confident and eloquent thought leader with a purpose to share, so make your voice and word choice clear.
✔️ Know your piece inside out. The best way to kill filler words once and for all? Preparation. Lots of it. You should know the steps like the back of your hand. Familiarize yourself with your mission and plan exactly how each part of your talk should play out.
✔️ Less confidence causes filler words. Butterflies in your stomach, stage fright, or getting jittery — that’s all quite normal before giving a speech. Allowing nervousness to consume us can lead to poor word choices, such as over splicing our sentences with “like.”
✔️ Get enough sleep. Cliché as it sounds, a healthy 7-8 hours of sleep can increase your reaction time. It also enhances your brain’s ability to fire up with ideas and transmit them to your mouth.
✔️ Lay off the alcohol and sugar. I’ve got nothing against alcohol and sugar, but I’ll never take them before a big speaking gig. These two bad boys cause inflammation and create brain fog. An unclear mental state reduces your speed and sharpness in forming cohesive sentences.
✔️ Keep your mouth closed. If you don’t have anything good to say, zip it — especially if they’re filler words. Get in the habit of taking silent pauses when emphasizing a point or buying thinking time. Those few seconds of dead air would be less distracting than throwing out an “um.”
You’re a confident and eloquent thought leader. Your voice and word choice should be clear and confident.
The world needs your voice.
P.S. Want more tips? Be sure to sign up for my LinkedIn newsletter where you’ll get exclusive tips on strengthening your mindset to become a better communicator. Click here to subscribe to Thought Leaders Amplified on LinkedIn.
P.P.S. I created a training program for healthcare professionals who need to discover their message and story, deliver it clearly, succinctly, and confidently, and present in a way that intrigues, entertains and keeps the audience’s attention. Share it with your friends in healthcare. Check it out even if you’re not in healthcare. The tips and tricks are universal. Click here to learn more.
P.P.P.S. Whenever you’re ready… here are a few more ways I can help you build your brand, own your voice, and stand out:
- Need actionable strategies to be a more trusted, authentic, confident, and inspiring thought leader? I just launched a podcast called Thought Leaders Amplified – you can listen to it here.
- Want more tactical advice you can implement today? Check out my blog here for great articles, stories, and lessons I’ve shared over the years.
- Looking for one-on-one coaching or a consultation with me? Schedule a complimentary call here to speak to our team about how we can help you.
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