Power of the Word Continued...

Here are a few pointers that will serve you well:

• Minimize words that are “fillers” such as "ahhh", "ummm", "you know".  Recently I attended a meeting and presentation where the speaker said “ahhh” 35 times in the first 15 minutes. Her expertise and knowledge was extensive, however, the frequent “ahhhhs” quickly detracted from her message.
• Bring your listeners/audience into the story by using words like “you”. Instead of “I’ll show you how to..." say “You will discover…”.  Instead of “I know you will love this product…” say “You will be impressed with this product!”.  Try “You will be amazed at how this new system can make your job easier” instead of “I can tell you firsthand this system will make your life easier.”  Patricia Fripp refers to this as the “I to you ratio concept.”
• Paint the picture - give people details that paint a visual for them such as “this new training program fosters team members working together effectively, increases their sense of team spirit and will offer staff an opportunity to bring their talents and skills to a whole new level!” instead of “this training program will help us be more effective and efficient”.