Voice Power or Dynamics in Effective Communication

An effective speaker performs well with or without a mircrophone.

Being able to speak clearly and forcefully will be an advantage to you, whether in the job market, in a motivational speech, or in your interpersonal relationships. Knowing how to project your voice and pronounce your words is key to successful leadership and communication.

Projection/Inflection

Speak loudly and clearly. According to voice and speech coach Sandra McKnight, you should project your voice at least 12 inches behind where your audience is seated. Practice both with and without the aid of a microphone. Avoid letting your volume drop at the end of your sentences.

Enunciation

Pronounce words as a normal speaker of standard English would say them. As McKnight points out, you should speak so that every consonant of every word is distinct. Avoid the practice of swallowing final consonants.

Breathing

Pausing for oxygen is important. When you breathe, take a deep enough breath to carry you through a sentence. This avoids what the Your Best Image website calls the "vocal fry," when you lose air before you finish talking.

References

• Your Best Image: YBI Newsletter
• Sandra McKnight: Voice Coaching Builds a Successful Career