How to Sound Smarter

Whether it is a first date or a job interview, sometimes we fail to sound as intelligent as we would like. Sometimes it is less a lack of education or I.Q. than it is a matter of sloppy communication and bad habits. These tips can help you sound smarter, if not more educated.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Newspaper
• List of clichés

1. Pace your speech and better think out your responses and comments. While slower speech may feel awkward at first, to the common observer, it appears that you are deliberate in your speech rather than fumbling for words.

2. Articulate your words clearly and avoid lazy speech involving dropped syllables or letters. If you are unfamiliar with the correct way to pronounce a word try to avoid doing so until you can verify the pronunciation. Many online dictionaries offer audible pronunciation guides.

3. Avoid using new words in formal discussions until you gain some familiarity with their use and understand their context. Words do not sound smarter unless they seem both natural and accurate. Practice using new words in a sentence mentally, around family and friends or in informal writing, wherever awkward speech will not be judged harshly.

4. Develop an ear for good speech rather than simply more formal speech. Some people make the mistake of using jargon or literary flare in place of more concise but effective words. Showing off may sound pompous rather than more intelligent.

5. Sound smarter by talking about what you know or have an educated opinion about. Discussions need not be limited to higher learning subjects to sound educated, but if often helps. Expose yourself to a variety of news and information sources if you feel your subject matter is lacking.

6. Read and talk about current events to sound significantly more educated. Many people engage in “cocktail party” narratives, covering many topics in a shallow manner, this loses its effect quickly. Try to cover a topic or two with more depth, by reading and developing solid opinions. A rule of thumb is that you can answer why you feel a certain way, supported by facts, and without fumbling for an answer.

7. Avoid bluffing about your knowledge just to impress someone. Frequently, this backfires as it's apparent you really do not know what you are talking about. This lends towards developing a reputation as a “know-it-all.” You will sound smarter if you admit a lack of knowledge on a subject or simply by listening.

8. Limit clichés as well as common expressions. This is even more important in writing than in speech. An example is, “It goes without saying.” If it goes without saying than it does not need to be said. The word “obviously” would make a better replacement here. Some websites and books maintain a list of clichés to avoid.

Tips & Warnings

• Improve your vocabulary by reading and listening to more challenging material.
• Make vocabulary building exercises more effective by identifying why you want to learn the information.
• It is better to use a new word that you understand once a month than one you do not on a daily basis.

[kllmomof2]

on 5/28/2008 Very informative, I need to have a relative read this