One of the most common challenges for many of my accomplished presentation skills clients is how to get rid of annoying filler words. You know, like: um, er, ah, you guys, basically, so, etc.

As a long time abuser of the filler word “so,” I know firsthand how tough it can be to eliminate them. Still, I’ve come across a strategy that seems to work brilliantly as a complement to other tactics you may have tried.

Apparently we use fillers out of habit, often without even being aware of it, because we’re searching for the next word or fear silence. Step one is to hear ourselves using these – try videotaping yourself – and then replace non-words with a phrase that fills the gap between what you’re saying now and what you intend to say next. Try these:

• For example, specifically, to illustrate
• On the one hand, nevertheless, in contrast, still, yet
• Next, then, finally, moving on, let's talk about, another vaild point is
• Before, currently, during, immediately, meanwhile, recently, now
• Even, in fact, of course, truly
• Therefore, consequently, accordingly
• Additionally, again, also, equally important, moreover, then
• Finally, in conclusion, in the final analysis, to summarize, on the whole

To summarize, once you become aware of your filler word habit you can use these phrases to transition from one thought to the next. At first you may feel as if you sound a bit canned, but if you practice and make these phrases your own, you will soon start speaking in a far more natural, professional and flowing manner.

If you struggle to create and deliver compelling presentations, please get in touch to discuss your situation. Whether giving a quarterly business review, project update, speaking at an all-hands meeting, or trying to persuade your senior executives to accept your proposal or recommendation, you must come across as confident and in command. Clear, concise, precise and persuasive presentations are not optional, they are at the heart of your and your company’s success.

It would be a pleasure to talk with you.