Pillar guide
Filler words at work
Updated
What 'um,' 'uh,' 'like,' and 'you know' actually do, and how to use fewer of them under pressure.
Filler words are placeholder sounds your brain produces while searching for the next word. They're universal across languages, but in professional settings the rate matters. Below 2 per minute sounds polished; above 5 hurts credibility. This guide collects everything Wellspoken has published on filler reduction.
Every article on this topic
Why Do I Say Like So Much at Work?
Learn why you say like so much at work, how filler words affect perceived confidence, and how to reduce them without sounding robotic.
8 min
How to Stop Rambling in Meetings
Learn how to stop rambling in meetings with BLUF, timed compression drills, and practical techniques for giving clearer workplace answers.
9 min
How to Stop Saying Um in Meetings
Learn how to stop saying um in meetings, why filler words cluster under pressure, and how Wellspoken trains cleaner transitions with Pause Swap practice.
8 min
Best App for Filler Words in 2026
Compare the best apps for reducing filler words in 2026. Includes Wellspoken, Credible, LikeSo, Orai, Speeko, Yoodli, and more, with features, pricing, and verdicts.
9 min