Why do you use filler words?
You’re talking faster than your brain can think.
Um, and ah puts your mouth on hold until enough data is “downloaded” into your brain to allow more speech to “stream.”
I call this conversational buffering.
If you’ve experienced conversational buffering, I have some great news.
You can eliminate the lag with a simple (but not easy) technique.
Speak 15% slower and pause.
Why?
Pausing lets your message sink in while you “download” more information.
Fast With No Pausing:
“We often um hear that uh, small business owners who use um traditional accountants uh often miss out on employee tax credits.”
15% Slower With Pausing:
“We often hear that small business owners who use traditional accountants (Pause) often miss out on employee tax credits.”
Like training your muscles in the gym, you can train your mouth to speak slower and pause.
Here’s how to get your reps in.
Pause for 24 hours before sending an emotionally charged email.
Pause for two beats after someone is done talking.
Pause for two beats before gossiping.
Pause for two beats before being defensive.
Pause for two beats before judging someone.
Pause for two beats when you are impatient.
Silence is golden but not easy.