Filler words like “um” and “uh” are not the enemy of great public speaking. Eliminating them entirely is not the goal — and obsessing over them can actually make your speaking worse. What truly matters is control, clarity, and connection with your audience.
The Myth That Won’t Die
Let’s talk about a public speaking myth that refuses to die: the idea that eliminating filler words like “um” and “uh” will magically make you a great speaker.
Nope. Not how it works.
The Truth About Filler Words
Here’s the deal — removing filler words is never the goal.
Yes, too many can be distracting, but focusing too much on cutting them out can make you sound robotic. Plenty of successful speakers still use “uh” and “um” occasionally. The key is to reduce them to a level where they don’t take away from your message. (Though, fair warning — removing excessive “like” can boost your professionalism since it’s often associated with junior high speech patterns.)
What Actually Matters
If you really want to sound confident and polished, the answer isn’t just eliminating fillers — it’s controlling your speaking. When you learn to be in control of what you’re saying and manage your nerves, filler words naturally decrease. Why? Because they usually appear when your brain is scrambling for the next thought. The more control you have, the less scrambling you do.
How to Actually Improve Your Speaking
Instead of obsessing over fillers, focus on these two things:
- Message Clarity — Your goal is to connect with your audience and deliver your message in a way they understand and relate to. If your content is strong, a few filler words won’t matter.
- Strategic Pauses — Instead of filling space with “um,” practice pausing. A pause not only makes you sound more confident, but it also gives your audience time to absorb what you’re saying.
Try This Today
Next time you’re speaking, don’t stress over every little “um.” Instead, try slowing down, controlling your nerves, and focusing on what you’re saying rather than filler word count. Your audience will remember your message — not how many times you said “uh.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Are filler words really that bad in public speaking?
Filler words become a problem only when they are excessive enough to distract your audience from your message. An occasional “um” or “uh” is completely normal and human. The goal is not elimination — it’s reduction to a level that doesn’t interfere with your communication.
How do I reduce filler words when speaking?
The most effective way to reduce filler words is to slow down and practice strategic pausing. When your brain needs a moment to catch up, a pause sounds far more confident than an “um.” Building message clarity and managing nerves also naturally reduces filler word frequency.
Why do people use filler words when speaking?
Filler words typically appear when your brain is searching for the next thought. They are a sign that your speaking pace has outrun your thinking. Slowing down, practicing your key points, and building confidence through coaching all help reduce them naturally.
Is it possible to speak with no filler words at all?
While it is possible to significantly reduce filler words, the goal of zero fillers is unrealistic and counterproductive for most speakers. Focusing too heavily on eliminating them can make your delivery sound stiff and robotic. A natural, confident speaking style matters far more than perfection.
Want to sound more confident and in control every time you speak? Queen City Etiquette offers personalized public speaking coaching to help you develop the skills that actually make a difference. Get in touch today to get started.