Mumbling, speaking too fast, and mispronouncing words Poor enunciation, speaking too fast (or too soft/loud), and mispronouncing words can be annoying to the listener and make you seem less confident and credible. If you’re unsure about how to pronounce a word, look it up or use a synonym instead. Examples: ✗ “Well, I’m concerned about the hierarchy [hi-arky] getting in the way.” ✓ “Well, I’m concerned about the hierarchy [hi-er-ar-ky] getting in the way.” A bad attitude or closed mind The intention behind your words is just as important as what you’re saying, so manifest a helpful, constructive attitude before speaking. Examples: * Be respectful and sensitive other people’s feelings * Be honest, patient, and accepting * Be optimistic * Believe in other people’s competence Attacking others In difficult situations, it’s easy to let your emotions guide your words and intent, but be mindful and avoid accusatory words and tones. Examples: ✗ “You need to stop behaving like this.” ✓ “I feel hurt when you behave like this.” Sending mixed messages Make sure that your words, gestures, facial expressions, and tone all match, especially when you are disciplining someone or delivering news that is either positive or negative. Examples: ✗ “I’m putting you on disciplinary probation until further notice.” (spoken in an upbeat tone with a smile) ✓ “You’re on disciplinary probation until further notice.” (spoken in a disheartened tone with a serious expression) Filler words Avoid using filler words in professional settings as they weaken your message. Common fluff words include “like”, “umm”, “well”, “really”, “sorry, but…”, “not to be unkind or anything, but…”. Examples: ✗ “Well, I tried to, like, finish the case study yesterday, but then you said, like, do this instead.” ✓ “I tried to finish the case study yesterday but with the additional assignments I wasn’t able to get back to it.” Exaggerating Sometimes things are pressing, but avoid over exaggerating things as it comes off as immature and insincere (especially in professional settings). Examples: ✗ “I had millions of things to do yesterday and it was just the most horrible, awful, day I’ve ever had, ever!” ✓ “I had a lot of things to do yesterday and it was tough to get through it all.” Not listening Waiting for someone to stop talking so you can talk is not really listening and will negatively impact the quality of your communication. Examples: ✗ “—Let me stop you right there, we need to approach the issue from the top down.” ✓ “Uh-huh” … “I see”... “Did you have any other notes or may I share my piece?” Being unaware of your body language Take note of your body language in various situations and notice what may or may not be appropriate for the situation. Examples: Closed body language (sends the message you want to avoid conversation) * Crossed arms * Slumped posture * Hunched shoulders * Downcast eyes * Body turned away from others Open body language (sends the message you are approachable and friendly) * Upright posture * Arms relaxed at the sides * Eye contact * Body facing others