One thing most of us can't avoid in architecture is having to verbally communicate our creative ideas to another person, that may be a client, a coworker, or even a contractor. Whoever it may be, communication is a powerful tool we must all hone in our careers. We've all heard since our youth that we should not say things like "um, uh, like, etc." too much when speak. We learn that it reduces our credibility and authority, and, according to research, this is true. 

"Used sparingly, there's nothing wrong with filler words. When you use them excessively, however, they can detract from your confidence and credibility," writes Harvard University Communications Professor Allison Shapira. In a recent piece for the Harvard Business Review, Shapira illustrates some areas where she feels these common filler words can be useful and offers some alternatives to help strengthen the implementation of them.

1. "To be diplomatic." Sometimes we need to use less assertive language when speaking to those above us. Shapira referenced a training she had led where the participants said that they need to use "hedge words" because the leadership was "highly sensitive to any type of feedback." She suggest to use words like "just" or "simply" or phrases like "we may want to consider" to help how our message might come across to a higher-up.
2. "To hold the floor." Shapira writes how one of her clients expressed her experience in an international setting where people would interrupt her when she would pause while speaking, thinking she was finished talking. Instead, her client used filler words as a way of signaling that she wasn't finished talking. "The filler word can serve as a strategic placeholder as you hold the floor," Shapira writes.
3. "To jump in." For many of her clients seeking direction on how "they can insert themselves into a conversation during a meeting, conference call, or when speaking on a panel," Shapira suggests introducing a well placed "so," "well," or "actually" as a well way to interject. The hope is that this will help reduce losing one's opportunity to speak during a crowded meeting or when one person monopolizes the attention.