Verbal Crutches

Verbal crutches - the Hmm’s, Uh’s or Ah’s we use in between words of our speech - used when we are trying to catch up with our thoughts and turn them into words.

It can also be any other word that we use repeatedly while talking. Examples : Like, basically, actually, etc.

Using verbal crutches is not a good sign when talking to others.

It might show - lack of confidence - discontinuity in thinking - lack of knowledge about the topic - we might also use verbal crutches when are lying

So what word/expression do you use as a verbal crutch?

How can we get rid of them?

Step 1 Speak at a slower rate. * speak slower to match your thinking rate and you will cure your speech crutches.

Save your face. Just stop talking!

Step 2 Close your mouth when you have nothing to say. Learn to pause when you have a blank thought. Form the next few words in your mind and then only vocalize them. Speak only when necessary.

Close your mouth when you have nothing to say.

Learn to pause when you have a blank thought.

Form the next few words in your mind and then only vocalize them.

Speak only when necessary.

Step 3 Punctuate with pauses. * Learn to phrase your speech by grouping words forming an idea and pausing after each idea.

Give it a shot! It’s good for your job.