13 Communication Pet Peeves You Can Change Today
- Jul 28, 2022
- 2 min read
Updated: Jul 29
Contributing Writers: Stephanie Bickel and Madina Behori
One of the quickest ways to become a better communicator is to eliminate the habits that distract from your message.
Some communication pet peeves are verbal, like saying "um" too often or taking too long to get to the point. Others are behavioral, like interrupting, avoiding eye contact, or appearing distracted during a meeting.
The challenge is that many of these habits become so routine that we stop noticing them. Meanwhile, they're shaping how others experience us every day.
Here are 13 common communication pet peeves. As you read through the list, ask yourself: Which one should I work on first?
13 Communication Pet Peeves You Can Change Today
Saying "um" and "like" too often
Ending sentences with "Does that make sense?" or "Do you follow?"
Not looking at someone while they're speaking
Avoiding eye contact while you're speaking
Appearing distracted, especially during virtual meetings
Scheduling meetings that could have been an email
Using too much jargon or too many buzzwords
Starting meetings without an agenda or not following one
Interrupting others
Taking too long to get to the point
Reading directly from your presentation slides
Using passive-aggressive communication instead of addressing problems directly
Acting as though your time is more valuable than everyone else's
The strongest communicators aren't perfect. They're simply more aware of how their words and behaviors affect the people around them.
Take a look at this list and identify the one habit that would make the biggest difference in your communication. Then ask a trusted colleague, coach, or manager if they've noticed it too. Honest feedback, combined with intentional practice, is one of the fastest ways to grow as a communicator.
Continue Improving Your Leadership Communication
Your voice is only one part of becoming a more impactful communicator. The strongest leaders know how to use their voice, structure their message, tell compelling stories, and communicate with confidence in high-stakes moments.
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