One thing that plagues some speakers is a frequent use of what is sometimes called “verbal graffiti.” That includes those “ums,” “likes,” “you-knows” and similar words that a lot of people say while they’re thinking of exactly what they want to say next. Those words detract from the professionalism of speakers and certainly don’t do anything to enhance the audience’s listening experience. Done too often they become irritating and will obscure the meaning of the speech itse