Do you make these mistakes?

Today I want to cover some of the most common mistakes people make in speaking. The sad fact is: Most people don’t realize they’re making them.

To start with…

Have you ever, like, you know, listened to somebody making umm, a really hesitant, erm presentation, and erm, you know, not sounding like they know what they’re talking about, and erm haven’t you, umm, you know, found it really ANNOYING!

Using filler words like “you know” as well as “erm” and “umm” is probably the most common (and irritating) mistake people make. When you’re wondering what to say and looking for the next word, it’s best to simply say nothing. Apart from being less annoying, it will also make you appear more thoughtful and contemplative, as if you’re choosing your words carefully.

Another mistake is speaking louder than necessary. It’s as if the speaker thinks that by raising the volume, they’ll get their message through. Wrong! It just screams insecurity (pun very much intended). Instead, use a voice that’s loud enough to be heard, but not louder.

Likewise when people feel nervous or insecure, they tend to speak too fast – it’s almost as if they’re trying to get what they have to say over and done with ASAP. Slow down! Set a pace in your mind, or tap your foot to keep time like you’re singing a song.

Not making eye contact screams “I’ve got something to hide”. If you’re speaking to a group, pick one or two people in the audience and look at them instead of the audience as a whole. Shift your gaze between them every so often – just so you don’t seem like you’re staring.

Finally, straying off topic is another no-no. When you just waffle, it dilutes the message you’re trying to put across and listeners will come away without a clue of what you’re talking about. Stick to the point.