The document provides 17 words and phrases that public speakers should eliminate to improve their credibility and effectiveness. These include filler words like "um" and "you know what I mean", slang, industry jargon, and phrases that indicate a lack of preparation or honesty. By removing these types of words and phrases and speaking professionally tailored to the audience, speakers can enhance their message and standing with listeners.
6. You are a public speaker so you should probably say
something. No comment = I really don’t want to say. There are
many ways to not say anything without saying ‘no comment’.
1
No Comment
7. If you have to ask, the answer is no.
2
You know what I mean?
8. Don’t worry about “dead air”. Pause and collect your
thoughts. Silence can be good.
3
Umm - and other filler words
9. Eliminate slang and other text-specific language. In other
words, speak like an adult.
4
Text language
10. Not that you need to remove it entirely, just use it
correctly – otherwise you will literally look like a fool.
5
Literally
11. People find greater interest when you relate to them – not
focus on you.
6
I
13. And you want me to sit through this why??? I’m not a
good singer and would never ask you to sit through an
unplugged performance.
8
I’m not good at public speaking
14. They can read. You don’t need to do it for them.
9
Slide reading
15. No you’re not – and they know it.
10
I’m glad you asked that question
16. If it is important for the audience, spend time on it. If it’s
not, eliminate it.
11
I’ll move through this quickly
18. You are smart. We get it. Use language that best delivers
your message to the larger audience.
13
Fancy words
19. Not everybody knows what you are talking about.
14
Acronyms and industry jargon
20. Neither did the audience, which is why they are in the
audience. Perhaps you should be too.
15
I didn’t have much time to prepare
21. Have the rest of your remarks been dishonest?
16
Honestly
22. If you do not know something, say so. Better yet, explain
how you intend to collect and provide the information.
17
I guess
23. CONCLUSION
Carefully extract slang, profanity, clichés, and filler words
such as “um”, “ah”, and “like” from your vocabulary when
speaking to an audience or the media.
Remain professional and speak appropriately to
the audience you are addressing.