How to Avoid Filler Words During an Interview
It happens to the best of us.
You’re right in the middle of answering a question during a live television interview and while you’re adding detail to your answer…like…to help…you know…provide a relatable example…a sneaky word or phrase…just…um….slips in there. Right?
Filler words. They can undermine even the most credible executive. They’re natural and they’re bound to happen but when delivering a presentation, conducting an interview or simply conversing in the course of your daily routine it’s important to eliminate them because they can interrupt the flow of a conversation, distract from your core message and negatively impact your overall presence.
Let’s work on identifying them and eliminating them.
What is a filler word?
Filler words are phrases such as “like”, “basically”, “actually”, “um”, “you know”, “right”, etc. You know what I mean, right?
Why you should avoid using filler words.
Filler words are a challenge because they undermine your authority. People tend to notice the repetition of a verbal filler word when you speak because it’s a phrase or word that will stick with your audience.. This can distract your audience from your idea or overall message, making it difficult for your audience to understand your point of view.
Why do we use filler words?
In general, we use filler words to bridge to a new thought or idea, to avoid an awkward pause or simply to fill time in order to determine what to say next.
In the case of non-native English speakers, filler words can serve as a quick mental break to use while a speaker is translating from his native language to English.
How to stop using filler words.
Like anything, it takes practice to eliminate this habit.
Audit yourself: Beginning is easy. Watch or listen to an interview you have done and notice when you use a filler word. Not doing interviews? Simply record yourself speaking to someone on the phone or during a meeting (let the participants know) so you can assess your baseline use of filler words.
Take it slow: Slow down your speech and talk at a pace that’s a bit slower than you would normally speak. This allows you think and be a bit more thoughtful in your interview. Practice speaking slowly in the course of normal daily conversation. In general, when we think we’re speaking slowly, it’s not too noticeable to others. Concerned about your speech pace? Ask a friend for feedback.
Pause: This is the most effective tool in eliminating filler words. When you find yourself insert that sneaky “you know” into a sentence take a beat and pause. This can be tough at first and is an intentional exercise. Once you get into this natural pausing habit, it will become second nature. Tactically, try the following:
Record yourself speaking on FaceTime so you can get a better sense of your filler word habit and you can visualize yourself pausing.
Real-time coaching and feedback: Real-time coaching and media training is the best and most effective way to begin eliminating your filler word habit. A media trainer can work with you to help you understand when and in what scenarios you’re using filler words. You will better understand your speech pattern as it relates to your filler words and get on a path to speaking in clear, commanding fashion no matter what situation you’re facing.