Verbal Ticks And What To Do About Them

The Story Engine Podcast

On todays episode we're going to be talking about ticks, particularly verbal and nonverbal ticks and their impact on credibility and audience perception. Verbal tics include filler words like 'um' and 'uh' as well as nonverbal tics like sporadic movements. While these tics may not seem like a big issue on the surface, they can make speakers appear less competent and confident, and even like frauds or liars. I'll provide strategies for reducing verbal tics, including focusing on powerful storytelling, enrolling oneself in the message, and prioritizing the audience.

In This Episode

• Verbal tics like filler words and nonverbal movements can erode credibility and make speakers appear less competent and confident.
• Factors like nervousness, being unprepared, and going off script can increase verbal tics.
• Reducing verbal tics requires focusing on powerful storytelling, enrolling oneself in the message, and prioritizing the audience.
• Verbal tics take away valuable speaking time that could be used to serve the audience.
• Practicing content and stories with a strategy can help reduce the reliance on scripts and improve speaking effectiveness.

We Discuss

00:00 Verbal Tics and Credibility 03:10 The Subconscious Perception of Verbal Tics 05:03 The Importance of Powerful Storytelling 06:02 Prioritizing the Audience: Cure for Imposter Syndrome