The problem with writing career advice is you inevitably end up covering a topic you feel unqualified to address. Whenever you write about communication, it puts a spotlight on your own. This post is for me too. Decluttering our spaces and our lives is always a popular topic. Now it’s time to talk about decluttering our language.
The hardest place to clean up language is in the cleared project world. Extra words do not make documentation better…they make it verbose. Using filler words during a presentation or meeting does the same thing, and diminishes from your real point.
Here are seven filler words you should cut. Trust me. You will sound smarter.
Adverbs
Basically, totally, essentially, completely, literally, very, really, quite, simply, pretty…..you get the idea. Adverbs are considered ‘dress-ups’ to our language. Add too many of them, and it’s like over-accessorizing. It just starts to feel overwhelming. Proofread your work and take out the excess before calling it complete.
In the process of…
Whatever you put after that phrase will already convey what is in process. Example: “Project xyz is in the process of transitioning locations…” Calling it a ‘process’ just clutters your statement without saying anything.
In order…
This preposition is excessive. Example: “Schedule weekly status briefings with the client in order to ensure project awareness.” A simple ‘to’ here will do.
Each and every.
This phrase is redundant. Example: “Remove your CAC each and every time you step away from your desk. ”
All of.
This is another unnecessary phrase that detracts from the message. Example: “All of The project team members are expected to attend the weekly status meetings.”
The course of.
We put this one after during, but we only need the word during. Example: “During the course of the training, users will be immersed in a 3D environment. ”
Point in time.
What is the point? If you need to indicate an exact time, do so. Time should always be specific, especially in management documents. Example: “The client schedule is unclear at this point in time.”
Filler words blur your message and show a lack of confidence and lessens the impact of the message. If you can communicate without them, do it. Give each of your words purpose and your team and clients will be able to understand your message.
