What happens if you can’t stop saying UMM while speaking?

Researchers say that your audience thinks you are less intelligent than you really are, that you don’t know your material, and worst of all, that you didn’t prepare for the session.

That’s a personal affront to an audience.

So – what to do? SHUT YOUR MOUTH!

An UMM can’t come out if your mouth is closed. You know when you are about to forget a word or lose your place. Shut your mouth at that moment. Collect your thought and then speak. That small pause is far less noticeable than a string of UMMS.

Read more talk tips.