The document provides 17 words and phrases that public speakers should eliminate to improve their credibility and effectiveness. These include filler words like "um" and "you know what I mean", slang, industry jargon, and phrases that indicate a lack of preparation or honesty. By removing these types of words and phrases and speaking professionally tailored to the audience, speakers can enhance their message and standing with listeners.

1. WORDS & PHRASES
THE BEST PUBLIC SPEAKERS ELIMINATE

2. INTRODUCTION
Too many public speakers and
company spokespeople stand before
an audience or the media and say
things they simply should not say.

3. INTRODUCTION
Not that their language damages the
organization they represent, but the
words or phrases they use damage
their credibility or trust.

4. Eliminate the
following words &
phrases and improve
your standing with
the audience.

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6. You are a public speaker so you should probably say
something. No comment = I really don’t want to say. There are
many ways to not say anything without saying ‘no comment’.
1
No Comment

7. If you have to ask, the answer is no.
2
You know what I mean?

8. Don’t worry about “dead air”. Pause and collect your
thoughts. Silence can be good.
3
Umm - and other filler words

9. Eliminate slang and other text-specific language. In other
words, speak like an adult.
4
Text language

10. Not that you need to remove it entirely, just use it
correctly – otherwise you will literally look like a fool.
5
Literally

11. People find greater interest when you relate to them – not
focus on you.
6
I

12. Also means…“this isn’t important”.
7
I’ll be brief

13. And you want me to sit through this why??? I’m not a
good singer and would never ask you to sit through an
unplugged performance.
8
I’m not good at public speaking

14. They can read. You don’t need to do it for them.
9
Slide reading

15. No you’re not – and they know it.
10
I’m glad you asked that question

16. If it is important for the audience, spend time on it. If it’s
not, eliminate it.
11
I’ll move through this quickly

17. Duh.
12
Profanity

18. You are smart. We get it. Use language that best delivers
your message to the larger audience.
13
Fancy words

19. Not everybody knows what you are talking about.
14
Acronyms and industry jargon

20. Neither did the audience, which is why they are in the
audience. Perhaps you should be too.
15
I didn’t have much time to prepare

21. Have the rest of your remarks been dishonest?
16
Honestly

22. If you do not know something, say so. Better yet, explain
how you intend to collect and provide the information.
17
I guess

23. CONCLUSION
Carefully extract slang, profanity, clichés, and filler words
such as “um”, “ah”, and “like” from your vocabulary when
speaking to an audience or the media.
Remain professional and speak appropriately to
the audience you are addressing.

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Communication Guides
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Over 5 Decades of
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