So the words “Uh” and “Um” and “You know” are now perfectly acceptable to use because they all signal certain useful meanings to the other person you’re speaking to. “I mean” has also been added to this new layer of communications. Experts say that “I mean” signals a forthcoming change in direction. If you want to alert the listener that you’re going to adjust the direction of your thoughts, you preface the new thought with, “I mean”. So it no longer means that we are flawed speaker by using these words, it means that we are just adding another layer of communication. However, the experts say that we must use caution when using these words, while used in moderation is fine, but used too often they suggest you are trying to hog the conversation. They say that if you’re a public speaker or doing a presentation, it still not acceptable to use them. “Oops”. The experts say by using them in this context leads the audience to believe you’re not confident and competent. I disagree because sometimes those words work very well for me “because” they fit right into the natural flow of conversation that engages my audience, but then again, the expertise comes in with how to use these words.
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