Do you need a resident Wordsmith?

A recent discussion caused me to reflect again on the importance of choose words suitable to the occasion and listeners.

Quite irritating for me is listening to speakers who litter their presentations with ‘stuff’ and ‘ting/thing’. What this says to me is that the speaker is either too lazy to choose words that are specific and accurately describe the item or situation they are referring to or is being evasive and is reluctant to share information. Worse than using this in personal discussions, it’s a hundred times worse when these vague words –irritatingly so, are used in business conversations. On the other hand, I cannot help but be impressed when the speaker use words to paint a clear picture, even in the absence of any supporting visual aid. So here are my suggestions for making clear, easily understood and powerful presentations.

* Avoid using vague, non-specific and unimaginative words such as: thing, stuff, something, nobody/none.

* Apply ‘Word Power’. Choose simple yet powerful and persuasive words. For example, use horrendous instead of rather high to describe an extreme situation.

* Choose words that will not cause offence on grounds of religion, gender, culture, ethnicity
or disability. Unless it’s a specific request from your audience – do not use bad language during your presentation.

* Always choose words and give examples that will aid your listeners’ understanding of your messages.

Veronica