What are filler words?

Filler words are unnecessary words or sounds like "um," "uh," "like," "you know," and "basically" that people use to fill pauses while speaking.

Why they matter

In interviews, presentations, and meetings, filler words can make you sound less prepared, less precise, and less confident than you actually are.

How to reduce them

• Pause instead of filling silence.
• Slow down your speaking pace.
• Prepare your key points first.
• Record yourself to build awareness.