Avoid these 6 phrases if you want to sound more confident

To project confidence in your speech, it's best to avoid phrases that signal insecurity. First, refrain from saying "Look!" This word commands attention and suggests you may have lost the audience's interest. Instead, use strong, conviction-filled words like "I believe that..." or "I know that..." to convey your message effectively.

Second, avoid saying "Listen!" as it is just as commanding as "Look!" and can come across as an attempt to assert dominance over the audience. Instead, present your message in a compelling manner that encourages your audience to listen actively.

Third, refrain from using "What I mean is..." This expression indicates that you may have struggled to communicate your point clearly. Simply explain your thoughts without resorting to this filler phrase. For instance, instead of saying "What I mean is," say "We can work smarter by being mindful of three things."

Fourth, avoid using "I'm thinking that." This expression makes it seem as though you're still in the process of forming your thoughts, which can make your audience lose interest. Instead, provide the results of your thoughtful deliberation to inspire and engage your listeners.

Fifth, don't use "I'll be honest" as a filler. This phrase can imply that you haven't been entirely truthful in your previous statements. Instead, pause for a moment while you gather your thoughts, which will enhance your audience's interest in what you're about to say.

Lastly, eliminate filler expressions like "You know," "uh," "er," and "ah" from your speech. These words add no meaningful value to your message and can make you appear uncertain. Practice speaking with confidence and the power of the pause, to effectively communicate your ideas without cluttering your audience's mind.