How to Stop Saying Um, Uh, and Other UNHELPFUL THINGS: A Complete Guide to FILLER IN Mastering Public Speaking
Filler words like “um,” “uh,” and “you know” often creep into our presentations and public speaking engagements. While they may seem harmless, these words can diminish your credibility and distract your audience. If you're ready to take your public speaking skills to the next level and eliminate these pesky fillers, this guide is for you. Drawing on advice from public speaking professionals and practical exercises, we’ll show you how to speak with clarity and confidence.
Do you use too many errrrrrrrmmmmmm filler words?
Why Do We Use Filler Words?
Understanding why filler words appear is the first step toward eliminating them. Here are some common reasons:
Hesitation and Nervousness: Public speaking often triggers anxiety, leading to verbal fillers as we search for the next word.
Fear of Silence: Many speakers feel compelled to fill every pause, even when silence would serve the presentation better.
Lack of Preparation: When you’re unfamiliar with your content, filler words bridge the gaps as you think on your feet.
Dr. Nick Morgan, author of Power Cues, notes, “Filler words are verbal tics that give your brain time to think. They’re a sign you’re not as comfortable with your message as you could be.”
The Negative Effects of Filler Words
Filler words can have unintended consequences on your presentation:
Distract the Audience: Excessive “ums” and “uhs” pull focus away from your message.
Weaken Credibility: Audiences perceive speakers who use fillers as less confident and authoritative.
Break the Flow: Filler words disrupt the rhythm of your speech, making it harder for listeners to stay engaged.
Step 1: Identify Your Filler Words
The first step to solving any problem is recognizing it. To identify your filler words:
Record Yourself: Practice delivering a speech and record it. Listen back to identify patterns.
Tip: Pay attention to the moments you hesitate or transition between ideas.
Seek Feedback: Ask a trusted friend, mentor, or public speaking course instructor to provide feedback on your speaking habits.
Use Speech Analysis Tools: Apps like Ummo or Yoodli analyze your speech and track filler words in real-time.
Step 2: Techniques to Eliminate Filler Words
Once you’ve identified your filler words, it’s time to tackle them head-on. Here are proven techniques:
1. Embrace Pauses
Silence can be a powerful tool in public speaking. Pausing gives you time to think and adds emphasis to your message.
Exercise: Practice pausing by reading aloud and inserting a 2-second pause at every punctuation mark. Gradually apply this to your presentations.
Quote: “A well-placed pause is a speaker’s secret weapon,” says Patricia Fripp, Hall of Fame speaker and public speaking coach.
2. Slow Down
Speaking too quickly often leads to more filler words. Slow, deliberate speech allows you to articulate thoughts clearly.
Exercise: Record yourself delivering a speech at a slower pace. Aim for 140-160 words per minute, the ideal speaking rate for presentations.
3. Prepare and Rehearse
Preparation is key to reducing filler words. When you know your content inside out, you’re less likely to hesitate.
Tip: Break your presentation into clear sections and rehearse each part individually.
Quote: “Preparation leads to confidence, and confidence eliminates fillers,” says Carmine Gallo, author of Talk Like TED.
4. Use Breathing Techniques
Deep breathing reduces anxiety and improves focus, making it easier to eliminate fillers.
Exercise: Practice diaphragmatic breathing before your presentation. Inhale deeply for four counts, hold for four counts, and exhale for six counts.
Tip: Take a breath instead of saying “um” when you feel the urge to hesitate.
5. Build Mental Awareness
Train your brain to recognize filler words as you speak.
Exercise: Ask a friend to tap a pen every time you say a filler word during practice. This feedback will increase your awareness.
Step 3: Replace Filler Words with Better Alternatives
If silence feels unnatural, use transitional phrases instead of fillers:
Examples:
Instead of “um,” say “Let me explain.”
Replace “uh” with “To clarify.”
These phrases maintain the flow of your speech while giving you time to think.
Step 4: Exercises to Improve Speech
Practical exercises can significantly improve your public speaking skills:
1. Impromptu Speaking Drills
Practice speaking on random topics for 1-2 minutes without preparation. This builds your ability to think on your feet.
Exercise: Use apps like Table Topics or join a public speaking course that includes impromptu speaking practice.
2. Practice With a Timer
Set a timer and speak on a topic for 3-5 minutes, focusing on eliminating fillers.
3. Join a Public Speaking Group
Groups like Toastmasters provide a supportive environment to practice and receive constructive feedback.
Step 5: Monitor Your Progress
Tracking your improvement is essential to staying motivated:
Record Regularly: Record your presentations periodically to evaluate progress.
Track Filler Word Reduction: Keep a log of how often you use fillers in each speech.
Celebrate Milestones: Acknowledge your improvements, no matter how small.
Advanced Tips for Mastering Public Speaking
Once you’ve eliminated filler words, refine your overall public speaking skills:
1. Use the Rule of Three
The Rule of Three is a classic speechwriting technique that enhances clarity and memorability.
Example: Instead of listing multiple benefits, focus on three key points.
2. Enhance Your Body Language
Nonverbal communication complements your speech. Practice gestures, eye contact, and posture to project confidence.
3. Invest in a Public Speaking Course
A structured course can provide expert guidance and personalized feedback. Search for courses that focus on presentations, public speaking, and speech delivery.
Quote: “Investing in a public speaking course is the best gift you can give yourself. It’s an investment in your future success,” says Brian Tracy, motivational speaker.
Common Myths About Filler Words
1. “Everyone Uses Filler Words, So It’s Fine.”
While occasional fillers are natural, excessive use can undermine your credibility. Aim for minimal usage.
2. “I Need to Talk Continuously to Keep My Audience Engaged.”
Pausing adds emphasis and gives your audience time to process your message. Silence is not the enemy.
3. “I Can’t Eliminate Filler Words Completely.”
While perfection isn’t necessary, significant improvement is achievable with practice and dedication.
Conclusion
Mastering public speaking requires dedication, but eliminating filler words is an achievable and impactful step. By embracing pauses, preparing thoroughly, and practicing regularly, you can deliver clear and confident presentations.
Are you ready to elevate your public speaking skills? Take action today by practicing these techniques, joining a public speaking course, or seeking feedback from a mentor. Your journey to confident, filler-free communication starts now! Whether you’re speaking at a conference, pitching to clients, or simply leading a team meeting, reducing filler words will enhance your credibility and effectiveness.
As you refine your skills, consider joining a public speaking course or engaging with a professional coach to take your presentations to the next level. Remember, every great speaker started somewhere—and with persistence, you can become a confident, compelling communicator.
