Let’s face it—public speaking or even everyday communication can feel like walking a tightrope. One misstep, and those pesky filler words—“um,” “uh,” and “you know”—come rushing in to fill the gap. I used to struggle with this myself. Every conversation, meeting, or presentation felt like a battle to keep those distracting little words at bay.But here’s the thing: filler words aren’t just awkward—they’re a confidence killer. They can make even the sharpest ideas sound uncertain and can chip away at the authority you’re trying to project.If you’re nodding along because this sounds all too familiar, don’t worry. In this post, I’ll share how to stop filler words, why they creep in, and how to replace them with purposeful pauses that exude clarity and confidence.<h1 id="8097185e-5bdc-425c-8fcc-12ecd8f61941" data-toc-id="8097185e-5bdc-425c-8fcc-12ecd8f61941">Why Do We Use Filler Words?</h1>Filler words often creep in during moments of hesitation. When we’re thinking, nervous, or trying to buy time, our brains instinctively throw in placeholders like “um” or “like.” But while they may feel harmless, filler words send subtle signals to your audience:<ul><li style="color: rgb(55, 65, 81)">Hesitation: “Do they really know what they’re talking about?”</li><li style="color: rgb(55, 65, 81)">Uncertainty: “Are they second-guessing themselves?”</li><li style="color: rgb(55, 65, 81)">Lack of clarity: “Where is this going?”</li></ul>Think of filler words as static on a phone line—they disrupt the flow of your message and make it harder for your audience to fully engage.<div data-youtube-video=""><iframe width="640" height="480" allowfullscreen="true" autoplay="false" disablekbcontrols="false" enableiframeapi="false" endtime="0" ivloadpolicy="0" loop="false" modestbranding="false" origin="" playlist="" progressbarcolor="white" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/RuNqlxgDqEE?si=IWfVQLmzeq9nDgME" start="0"></iframe></div><h1 id="fc117179-cb80-4af0-93de-bd822db0a0c9" data-toc-id="fc117179-cb80-4af0-93de-bd822db0a0c9">The Power of Pausing</h1>The solution? Replace those filler words with purposeful pauses.I know, I know—silence can feel awkward. We’re wired to want to fill every moment of a conversation, but here’s the truth: a pause isn’t a stumble. It’s a power move.<h2 id="dc921e1e-0cd2-48e3-84a3-9c72b3ecd66d" data-toc-id="dc921e1e-0cd2-48e3-84a3-9c72b3ecd66d">Why Pausing Works</h2><ol><li style="color: rgb(55, 65, 81)">It Shows Confidence A well-timed pause signals to your audience that you’re in control. You’re giving your words the space they deserve, and that kind of assurance is magnetic.</li><li style="color: rgb(55, 65, 81)">It Provides Clarity Think of pauses as punctuation for your speech. They give your audience time to digest what you’re saying, making your message clearer and more impactful.</li><li style="color: rgb(55, 65, 81)">It Builds Trust Studies show that people decide if someone is credible or trustworthy within seconds of hearing them speak. A speaker who uses pauses instead of filler words comes across as poised and authoritative.</li></ol><h1 id="acfbf494-5f3d-48eb-a28c-46c18fb1f7bf" data-toc-id="acfbf494-5f3d-48eb-a28c-46c18fb1f7bf">A Quick Story: The CEO and the Glass of Water</h1>To bring this to life, let me share a quick story.A while back, I was the MC at a conference, and the CEO of a major company had to deliver the opening address. He wasn’t a natural public speaker and was worried about stumbling over his words or losing his place. With clients and team members in the audience, his credibility was on the line.Here’s what we did: we set up a small table with a glass of water at the front of the stage. If he felt himself about to slip into “um” territory, he would calmly walk over, take a sip, and use that moment to refocus.The result? His delivery was seamless. The pauses felt deliberate and added gravity to his message, making him look like he owned the stage.This technique isn’t just for CEOs. Whether you’re pitching in a meeting or chatting at a networking event, pausing can work wonders.<h1 id="4f207ac5-e4da-4f33-89d9-f55c668c9ad0" data-toc-id="4f207ac5-e4da-4f33-89d9-f55c668c9ad0">A 3-Step Action Plan to Stop Filler Words</h1>If you’re ready to leave filler words behind, here’s how to start:<h2 id="0745fd70-6626-4d20-be5f-3b408fe5e8aa" data-toc-id="0745fd70-6626-4d20-be5f-3b408fe5e8aa">1. Notice Them</h2>The first step is awareness. Record yourself during meetings or presentations and listen back. It’s not always pleasant, but it’s the fastest way to identify your filler word habits.<h2 id="4f568b6b-03ba-4bdb-9e93-180660498eca" data-toc-id="4f568b6b-03ba-4bdb-9e93-180660498eca">2. Slow Down</h2>Most filler words happen because our brain and mouth aren’t in sync. By slowing down, you give yourself more time to think, which reduces the need for verbal fillers.<h2 id="1ef4d451-0ecf-4bee-8a2e-26160ba9033c" data-toc-id="1ef4d451-0ecf-4bee-8a2e-26160ba9033c">3. Practise Pausing</h2>When you feel a filler word bubbling up, stop. Take a breath. Hold the silence. It will feel awkward at first, but to your audience, it will feel natural—and even impactful.<h1 id="b1bcc291-cae7-460e-a25d-b300487096db" data-toc-id="b1bcc291-cae7-460e-a25d-b300487096db">Common Concerns About Pausing</h1>Let’s address a few questions I hear all the time when I talk about the power of pauses.“Won’t it feel awkward?” To you, maybe. But to your audience, a pause feels intentional and confident.“What if someone interrupts me?” Maintain strong body language. Keep eye contact and slightly gesture to signal that you’re still speaking.“Do I have to pause all the time?” Not at all. Casual conversations are different, and filler words can make you sound approachable. But in moments that matter—presentations, pitches, or interviews—pauses are a game-changer.<h1 id="8e375c30-aa79-4327-8457-ca51730769cb" data-toc-id="8e375c30-aa79-4327-8457-ca51730769cb">Unlock the Secret to Confident Conversations</h1>Struggling to start conversations or keep your words in check?You’re not alone. But you don’t have to stay stuck. With my free 15-minute Break The Ice training, you’ll learn the exact 3-step formula to confidently connect with anyone.Whether it’s business meetings, social events, or casual encounters, this formula will help you communicate with ease.💡 Ready to upgrade your communication skills?<a target="_blank" href="https://bit.ly/4dTZZaz"> Click here</a> to get instant access to the free training.<h1 id="39ce96d4-b7f2-48a9-93e6-616215cd2615" data-toc-id="39ce96d4-b7f2-48a9-93e6-616215cd2615">Final Thoughts: Small Changes, Big Impact</h1>Learning to stop filler words isn’t about becoming a perfect speaker. It’s about being intentional with how you communicate. By pausing, you can replace hesitation with confidence, making your words land with clarity and impact.If this article resonated with you, I’d love to connect! Follow me on my other channels for more insights: 📸 Instagram:<a target="_blank" href="https://instagram.com/anthonylayespeaks"> @anthonylayespeaks </a>📹 YouTube:<a target="_blank" href="https://youtube.com/anthonylaye"> @anthonylaye </a>🌐 Website:<a target="_blank" href="https://anthonylaye.com"> </a><a target="_blank" href="http://anthonylaye.com">anthonylaye.com</a>Looking to enhance your team’s communication skills or find a dynamic speaker for your next event? I offer keynote talks, training workshops, and MC services tailored to help businesses create confident, high-impact communicators. Get in touch—I’d love to help!

Filler words aren’t just awkward—they’re a confidence killer. They can make even the sharpest ideas sound uncertain and can chip away at the authority you’re trying to project.

How to Stop Filler Words and Sound More Confident

A Quick Story: The CEO and the Glass of Water

A 3-Step Action Plan to Stop Filler Words

Unlock the Secret to Confident Conversations

Final Thoughts: Small Changes, Big Impact

Learn how to grow and scale your online course business using our online course platform. EzyCourse blog is designed to teach you how to create and sell online courses.

How to Stop Filler Words and Sound More Confident

How to Stop Filler Words and Sound More Confident

Related Posts

How To Set Goals In Life (Without Burning Out Your Coaching Business)

Body Language for Coaches & Professionals: How to Command a Room Without Saying a Word

Too Busy to Breathe: How to Stay Calm & Clear When Life Gets Overwhelming

How to Stop Being Angry (Even When People Push Your Buttons)

Fear of Failure: The Silent Trap Holding High Achievers Back