5 Practical Ways to Reduce Ums and Uhs while Speaking

People often use filler words like "um" and "uh" in their speech because they need a moment to think about what they want to say next. These words are known as "disfluencies" and are often used when the speaker is trying to gather their thoughts or organize their ideas.

Using filler words can also be a nervous habit or a way to alleviate anxiety or stress when speaking in public. Some people use these words as a crutch when they are unsure of themselves or when they feel pressure to speak quickly or with authority.

Read till the end to learn the techniques used by the famous speakers to eliminate the disfluencies in their speeches.

5 Proven Ways to Reduce Filler Words

It's important to note that using filler words occasionally is normal and natural in conversation. However, if someone is using them excessively, it may indicate a need to practice more effective public speaking techniques or seek out support to address any underlying anxiety or confidence issues.
Here are 5 practices to reduce filler words in a speech.

1. Practice

Practice speaking in front of a mirror or with a friend, and record yourself. Listen back to the recording and identify the filler words that you tend to use. Then, consciously practice speaking without using those filler words.

2. Slow down

Many people use filler words because they feel the need to keep speaking and avoid silence. However, speaking too quickly can actually increase the number of filler words you use. Take a breath and slow down your speaking pace, giving yourself time to think before speaking.

3. Pause

Instead of using filler words, try pausing briefly when you need to gather your thoughts. This can also help to emphasize important points in your speech.

4. Use gestures and body language

Using gestures and body language can help to emphasize what you're saying and give you time to gather your thoughts. This can be especially helpful if you're nervous and tend to use filler words when speaking.

5. Get feedback

Ask a trusted friend, colleague, or mentor to provide feedback on your speech. They can help you identify areas where you tend to use filler words and provide suggestions on how to improve your public speaking skills.

Learn from the Bests.

Effective public speaking requires a combination of preparation, confidence, and technique. One important technique is to reduce the use of filler words, which can distract from your message and undermine your credibility as a speaker.

Many famous speakers have mastered this skill and are known for their clear, engaging speaking style. In this response, we will explore some examples of techniques used by famous speakers, including Barack Obama, Ellen DeGeneres, Brene Brown, Steve Jobs, and Martin Luther King Jr., to reduce filler words and speak with confidence and clarity.

1. Barack Obama

Obama is known for his smooth and eloquent speaking style, and he rarely uses filler words. One technique he uses is to pause and take a breath before speaking, giving himself time to gather his thoughts. He also uses repetition and emphasizes key words and phrases to make his points more clearly.

2. Ellen DeGeneres

Ellen DeGeneres is a comedian and talk show host who is known for her charismatic and engaging speaking style. She uses humor and storytelling to connect with her audience and keep them engaged, and she rarely uses filler words. One technique she uses is to pause and smile when she needs to gather her thoughts, which keeps the audience engaged and interested.

3. Brene Brown

Brown is a researcher and speaker who is known for her TED Talks on topics such as vulnerability and shame. She rarely uses filler words and speaks with clarity and confidence. One technique she uses is to practice her speeches extensively before giving them, which helps her feel prepared and confident.

4. Steve Jobs

Jobs was known for his charismatic and engaging speaking style, and he rarely used filler words. One technique he used was to rehearse his presentations extensively, which allowed him to speak with confidence and clarity. He also used storytelling and visual aids to engage his audience and make his points more effectively.

5. Martin Luther King Jr.

King was known for his powerful and inspiring speeches, which were marked by their clarity and eloquence. He rarely used filler words, and instead spoke with passion and conviction. One technique he used was to repeat key phrases and ideas, which helped to emphasize his points and make them more memorable. He also used metaphors and imagery to help his audience understand complex ideas.

In conclusion, reducing filler words is an essential technique for effective public speaking. It can help you to convey your message with clarity and confidence, and engage your audience more effectively.

By practicing techniques such as slowing down, pausing, and emphasizing key points, you can reduce the use of filler words and improve your public speaking skills.

As demonstrated by the examples of famous speakers, mastering this skill can help you to become a more effective communicator, and make a lasting impact on your audience. So, the next time you are preparing for a speech or presentation, remember to focus on reducing filler words and speak with confidence and clarity.

Using our advance algorithm, Gabble.ai identifies your frequency of use of "ums" and "uhs" and helps you reduce your disfluencies in a judgement-free space.

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