RSA a British Organization similar to TED in the US.

Richard Thaler, a University of Chicago Professor must Overcome the “umm” habit. The “umm” habit distracts from his message. Here he speaks at an RSA event. Watch his Presentation and you’ll see what I mean. For students of Speaking….

verbal place holders like umm & ahh are space fillers. Although they’re frequently heard in Speeches & Presentations, they are avoidable. They will annoy some of your audience. They will drive some of your audience to disconnect from your message and discourage attentive, Active listening. In fact if the “umm” habit is very prevalent in your Presentations you may drive some listeners to their cell phones. So, the bottom line of this Speaking advice is to encourage you to take action to Overcome the “umm” habit:

1st, I encourage you to recognize that you actually have this “umm” habit. Next, seek out a  secure Learning environment where you can take risks. The solution is simple really. Unfortunately many people think it’s difficult and so they continue to avoid the un-learning, re-learning experience. This is a good moment to become friends with your cell phone video as your re-training partner. Speak, record, view. Repeat several times: Record, watch, review. Do this several times a week. You can overcome the “umm” habit and you’ll be better off for it. So will your Presentations.

2nd, Combine your new habit with the renewed Confidence you’ve developed and Present them at every opportunity. You might not begin by giving a Keynote address at a major Event. But, begin small and work-out & work-up. See my show on Volunteer activity which serves many good purposes. It’s a perfect place to begin, and you will be a Welcomed individual.

The Solution: Planning, Preparation, & Practice will help You resolve this Distracting issue. The Result: Attracting and keeping the attention & involvement of Your Audience.

~Want more Solutions for this issue? see Show# 24.

Being aware of Your distracting Speaking Habits,
is a 1st step to Your Professional improvement.

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