Public Speaking Tips - Please Steer Clear of These Phrases

Public speaking can be a daunting task, but you can make it more effective by avoiding certain phrases. Here is my opinion on how to avoid some common pitfalls in public speaking.

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It is important not to start your presentation with caveats such as “I am not an expert” or “I didn’t prepare much”. They immediately make the audience lose confidence in what you are saying. Even when feeling anxious or unprepared, one has to appear confident from the beginning.

It’s often that people judge others’ level of knowledge by the way they present themselves, hence one has to avoid making fun of themself and rely on their level of preparedness rather than expressing doubt about it.

Another saying to avoid is “Does that make sense?” Although it seems you are communicating with your listeners, it can sound superior or show some level of uncertainty concerning the subject matter. However, you can choose to say, “I’m happy to elaborate if anyone has questions.” This way, questions come naturally without insinuating that your explanation may have been unclear.

Also, filler words like “um,” “uh,” and “you know” come up quite often. They make you sound less confident and divert attention from what you are trying to communicate.

The most effective way of cutting down on fillers is by rehearsing and embracing breaks. Silence can be very powerful; it gives the audience an opportunity to contemplate your points for a while making them think deeper about your argumentations and see you as more rational in general.

Dynamic, tricky and perplexing as hell. I mean there is great demand on you to have a good insight of the subject and then prepare adequately for it. You can always record yourself while speaking and later watch the footage for possible improvements such as filler words or improper use of body languages that may distract your audience. Also, invaluable: practicing in front of friends or family who give you honest feedback.

All public talks are intended to reach out to people. Thus, if you want to make a stronger impression that lasts longer by avoiding phrases that are harmful to your reputation and talking with certainty, then as an individual you can achieve this by using clear speech.

Therefore preparation, self-awareness and readiness for improvement are the prerequisites of being successful in this area of expertise.

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