How do filler words affect your credibility and confidence in a phone conversation?

Filler words are those words or sounds that you use to fill in the gaps or pauses in your speech, such as "um", "uh", "like", "you know", "so", and "well". They may seem harmless or even natural, but they can have a negative impact on your credibility and confidence in a phone conversation. In this article, you will learn how filler words affect your communication, why you should avoid them, and how to reduce them with some simple tips and techniques.

1 The effects of filler words

Filler words can make you sound unsure, unprepared, or unprofessional in a phone conversation. They can also distract your listener, reduce your clarity, and weaken your message. For example, if you say "I'm, uh, calling to, um, discuss the, you know, project report", you are not conveying confidence or authority. Instead, you are giving the impression that you are nervous, hesitant, or confused. This can undermine your credibility and influence, especially if you are trying to persuade, inform, or negotiate with someone.

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Charles Bradley, SAFe PMPO

Driven, Empathic, and Transparent Agile Product Manager
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It is important to understand that there is no one right way to speak to people over the phone. While removing filler words can help your credibility you must be careful to still build a rapport with the person on the other end of the line. To some degree mirror their speaking pattern and find a common language between the two of you that I'd appropriate to your relationship. This can be the difference between coming off as a soulless sales person or a fellow human being who is worthy of respect and interest.

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Jason Fuentes

Program Manager at Defense Contract Audit Agency
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Use the mute button! Think through your response and use the mute button to turn your mic on and off. This extra step will ensure you thoroughly consider the situation and think through your response. Also, allowing a second before responding can convey that you are considering the question and may also allow for the person you are speaking with to provide more information.

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2 The reasons for filler words

Filler words are often used unconsciously or habitually, as a way of coping with anxiety, uncertainty, or lack of preparation. They can also be influenced by your culture, environment, or speech patterns. For example, some people use filler words to signal politeness, hesitation, or agreement. Others use them to buy time, avoid silence, or fill in the gaps while thinking. However, these reasons do not justify the use of filler words, as they can backfire and damage your communication.

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Jason Fuentes

Program Manager at Defense Contract Audit Agency
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One way to pickup on if you are using filler words, so you can make the conscious decision to change is to record yourself. Provide a training that will be recorded and listen to it after. In addition, MS Teams has a transcripting feature, read what it picks up when you are talking.

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3 The ways to avoid filler words

You can avoid filler words with some practice and awareness. To do this, prepare and rehearse phone conversations, knowing your purpose, key points, and expected questions. Practice out loud, record yourself, or ask for feedback. Pause and breathe instead of using filler words; this will help you calm your nerves, organize your thoughts, and emphasize your message. Replace filler words with meaningful words to add value or clarity to your communication. Monitor and correct yourself by being aware of how often you use filler words; use apps, tools, or feedback to help track and reduce them. When you catch yourself using a filler word, stop and repeat the sentence without it.

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4 The benefits of reducing filler words

Reducing filler words can improve your credibility and confidence in a phone conversation. You will sound more confident, clear, and professional. You will also communicate more effectively, as you will focus on your message and your listener. This will help you achieve your goals, whether you are making a sales pitch, a customer service call, or a job interview.

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5 The challenges of eliminating filler words

Eliminating filler words is not easy or quick. It requires patience, practice, and persistence. You may not notice immediate results, or you may face setbacks or relapses. You may also encounter situations where filler words are unavoidable or acceptable, such as casual conversations, social interactions, or cultural contexts. However, do not let these challenges discourage you. Remember that reducing filler words is a skill that you can learn and improve over time.

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6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?

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How do filler words affect your credibility and confidence in a phone conversation?

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1 The effects of filler words

2 The reasons for filler words

3 The ways to avoid filler words

4 The benefits of reducing filler words

5 The challenges of eliminating filler words

6 Here’s what else to consider

Phone Etiquette

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