We’ve all been there — standing in front of a client, a colleague, or a crowded room — and suddenly it hits.

“Umm…” “Ahh…” A pause that feels like forever. A sentence that starts over three times before it lands. Or maybe the habit of filling the thinking gap with noise started when you’re young like me so others knew you weren’t done yet.

Speaking with confidence isn’t about being the loudest in the room. It’s about being clear, structured, and calm — even when your thoughts are still catching up.

The good news? Confidence can be trained. Just like any technical skill, there are tactics you can practise that help you sound more in control and less like you’re filling space with noise.

Here are 7 techniques that work (at least for me) — especially in high-pressure environments like stakeholder workshops, strategy meetings, or project reviews:

1. Start With Structure: Use 1–2–3 Framing

One of the easiest ways to sound confident is to structure your response before you speak.

• “There are 2 things we need to consider…”
• “The 1 thing I want to highlight is…”
• “Here are 3 ways we could approach this…”

This gives you a clear mental roadmap, and it helps your listener stay engaged. You sound like you’ve already thought it through — even if you’re thinking on the fly.

2. Buffer Your Pause With Purpose

Instead of launching straight into an “umm,” try a confident buffer phrase:

• “That’s a great question — give me a second to think about it.”
• “Let me just pause and organise my thoughts here.”
• “I want to answer that properly — let me take a moment.”

This gives you space to breathe, while showing thoughtfulness instead of panic.

3. Lead With the Headline

Don’t feel like you have to explain your way into an answer.

Start strong:

• “My recommendation is…”
• “This matters because…”
• “Here’s what success looks like…”

You can always explain why after. But by leading with your main point, you set the tone with clarity and control.

4. Practise Out Loud, Not Just In Your Head

Reading notes silently is not the same as hearing your own voice explain an idea.

Practise giving your points out loud — to a mirror, while walking, or during your commute. You’ll start to notice where your confidence dips, and you’ll naturally iron out filler words over time.

5. Pause Instead of Filling

Silence isn’t awkward. In fact, a pause can be powerful.

Train yourself to replace filler words with nothing at all. A moment of silence shows you’re comfortable enough to think before speaking — and that’s a strength, not a weakness.

6. Have Anchor Phrases Ready

Keep a few confident go-to lines ready in your back pocket:

• “Let’s take a step back for a second.”
• “From what I’m hearing, the key thing is…”
• “Here’s where I’d like to take this next.”

These phrases help you pivot, reset, or step in — without sounding scattered.

7. Listen to Understand, Not to Respond

Often, “umms” come from trying to think of what to say while the other person is talking.

Try this instead: mentally repeat their words in your head. Silently paraphrase their point or think of an example that connects. You’ll feel more present — and when it’s your turn to speak, you’ll be ready.

Final Thoughts

Filler words are normal. Everyone uses them — even experienced speakers. But with a few deliberate techniques, you can speak with more confidence, less hesitation, and lead with calm authority in the moments that count.

And remember: Confidence doesn’t mean having all the answers. It means showing up prepared, present, and purposeful.