Filler words. We use them in our writing and don’t even realize it. I know I’m just as guilty as the next marketer. It’s a blind spot. Now, I proof everything I write, then send it to my team for a second look.

Here are a few of the worst offenders to avoid in your writing. Some don’ts:

Don’t use “really” or “very” to describe things. Get more detailed.  Instead of saying ‘very important,” check out an online thesaurus for alternate words, like “monumental” or “a cornerstone.”

Next, get rid of “I think” or “I believe.” Obviously you do, or you wouldn’t be writing it. It makes you sound unsure of yourself. You’re the authority. Write like you mean it, as the expert.

Avoid definitives. To say something “always” or “never” happens isn’t true. Instead say an event is rare or happens frequently. Better yet, quantify your findings with statements like, “it happens 7 percent of the time.” It’s more specific and interesting.

Writing passively is boring too, when you use words like “there” or “here.” Be more exact. Instead of saying “there’s an iguana in the tree,” say “a big scaly green iguana is in the tree and ready to jump in the pool.” Filler words like “here and here” are muddy content. I put in the iguana because I’m looking at one now and he may be looking for a swim.

I had a high school English teacher once tell me to look at any sentence with the word “that.” She said to read it without the “that,” and if it makes sense without it, to take it out.

Writing better is a decision like anything. To write better, you have to practice. For 5 years I’ve been writing a blog and it’s almost weekly writing religion. Now, I write for the Fast Marketing Minute every day.

This is Robin Samora with the Fast Marketing Minute. Do you need help with your content? Get in touch at RobinSamora.com/contact and let’s set up a call. Talk tomorrow!