Speak so They'll Want to Listen
March, 2002 - By: Sharon Danley

Most people speak too quickly and don't articulate - usually due to nerves. Knowing your presentation well will go a long way to addressing this issue. Do diaphragmatic, facial and vocal warm-ups prior to every presentation.

One of the most overlooked skills that has the most impact is giving every vowel, consonant and diphthong (secondary sound in a vowel) its full, intended value! Practice this skill every time you talk throughout the day and you will find that your voice becomes lyrical and very pleasant for your audience to listen to. And the next time you hear yourself on audio or video tape you'll have a rewarding experience.

Sing your way to a robust voice. Practice projecting your voice by singing to your favourite tunes. Sing in the shower, the car or any time any place. Deep breathe into your diaphragm 10 times, 3 times a day every day - also in the shower or the car - it's fun, easy and the side benefit in many health benefits is well documented.

Beware the dangers of up speak (sentence tag that is turned up like a question). Nothing does more to undermine your expertise than this habit, and that's all it is. It's often referred to as the "valley girl" sound. Avoid it at all cost, unless of course you are speaking to a group of teenage girls you need to influence.

Most women's voices are too soft. Speaking from the diaphragm is the best way to achieve good projection and sustained sound. Do what Mom always said, stand up straight. Breathe deep into what might feel like the pit of your stomach, not the upper chest, as most people want to do. Keep your mouth and jaws relaxed and push from your abdominal area when you speak. Voila, a commanding voice.

As men age their voices rise in tone - for women they drop. Know what age groups are you presenting to and match their general pitch levels. In other words, if you are a senior femme addressing a young crowd, raise your pitch by half a tone. If you are a junior femme and presenting to senior management, then drop your pitch by ½ or full tone. You can change your vocal age by changing your pitch. Know your audience and adjust accordingly. It's simply a matter of matching and leading.

Most people use less than 500 words in the English language. One of the simplest ways to sound like the expert you are is to make a lifelong friend of your dictionary and thesaurus. When you express your ideas more clearly you increase your ability to inspire and influence significantly.

When you take advantage of your full range of vocal tools you greatly enhance your overall presentation, increase your sense of self-esteem and project an honest confidence that's hard for your audience to resist. Seek out a competent vocal coach. Its well worth the investment in that 45% auditory aspect of your presentations - your voice!

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