A recently appointed CEO of a prominent wealth management firm faced an unexpected challenge soon after stepping into his new role. Following his inaugural board meeting, the board chair pulled him aside for some direct feedback: “You could really benefit from a speaking coach.” This suggestion came as a surprise to the newly-minted CEO. A highly accomplished leader, he was unaware of any shortcomings in his communication style.
Perplexed by the board chair’s advice, the CEO contacted Articulation. Our first suggestion: watch a video recording of the board meeting. This self-assessment proved eye-opening. He discovered he was an “um-er,” a habit that was pervasive and distracting. He used this verbal crutch every five or six words. The frequency disrupted the flow of his message and diminished his executive presence, especially among the critical audience of board leadership.
The CEO came back from this self-assessment committed to improving. We began our coaching process with a thorough analysis of the video, pinpointing the specific patterns and triggers that led to the dreaded “ums.” Instead of a one-size-fits-all solution, we tailored a customized strategy for coaching the CEO’s unique speaking habits and challenges.
Key Strategies for Transformation: We focused on several key areas, each designed to address the root causes of the filler word problem and build more effective communication habits.
- Mastering Breath Control: We guided the CEO through specific breath exercises and techniques to enhance breath support and power his voice from his diaphragm. This not only improved vocal quality but also helped him manage anxiety and create a more confident delivery. And he was better able to control his tendency to fall back on filler words when he had the strong foundation of proper breathing habits.
- Crafting Concise Language for High Impact: A key strategy involved training the CEO to use shorter sentences. He worked toward identifying and employing “sticky” words–terms of particular importance or emphasis–that anchored his message. This technique minimized the space where filler words might creep in, and promoted structured clarity.
- Embracing Silence and Strategic Pausing: Often, the desire to avoid silence leads to using filler words. The coaching helped the CEO become comfortable with pauses, recognizing them as powerful tools for emphasis and breath control. He learned to use silence deliberately to allow ideas to land, to gather his thoughts, and to enhance the impact of his message.
- Cultivating a Daily Practice for Sustainable Change: The improvement process was not confined to sessions before presentations. The CEO developed a daily practice, integrating the newly learned techniques into all communication scenarios. Consistency and repetition were critical in rewiring his verbal habits. The dedication led to long-term transformation and confidence in all speaking engagements.
From “Um” to Executive Presence
Through dedicated coaching and strategic practice, the CEO underwent a significant transformation in his communication style. What began as an unconscious reliance on filler words evolved into a confident, clear delivery.
Articulation’s customized approach enabled the CEO to:
- Identify and address the root causes of his communication challenges.
- Develop practical techniques for breath control, precise language, and strategic pausing.
- Reinforce new habits with daily practice to ensure sustainable change.
The outcome was not just the elimination of “um” from his speech patterns, but a complete enhancement of his executive presence. The CEO’s communication became a powerful tool, increasing his ability to connect with and influence the board and other key stakeholders.
Focused, personalized communication coaching can have a profound impact on even the most accomplished individuals, allowing them to fully realize their potential and lead with greater authority and authenticity.
If you or a leader you know is looking to transform your communication skills and style, contact Acacia Duncan at acacia@articulationinc.com.
