Learning to convey compelling messages to your audience takes practice, and the benefits far outweigh the effort required to become an effective speaker.

Communication is an art form that is not only about what you say. It includes how you speak and express yourself, which, in turn, determines how others perceive you.

Aligning your intention with the desired impact is crucial, as how you are remembered when you are not present in the room determines your success. Using your voice, whether in person, virtually, or in print, is about shaping the perception of your character and the way you want to be thought of when your name is mentioned. It delves into the core question of who you want to be.

When your audience hears you speak for the first time, they automatically assess your social and economic status, intelligence level, and willingness to listen to what you have to say.

Perceptions are based on how you ACT:

1. How authentic you are, the image you portray, and whether your audience can personally relate to you based on your likeness or resemblance to them.
2. The content of your words, including word choice, phrases, and sentence structure, derived from your experiences, background, understanding, or wisdom that led you to your position.
3. The timing of your message, including how you verbally deliver the message, derived from your training, education, knowledge, insight, observation, or judgment based on the topic.

Your challenge is bridging the gap between what you say and what your audience hears.

A speaker’s voice plays a significant role in triggering personal and aesthetic biases. Different aspects of the voice impact our perception of the speaker.

1. The intensity of your voice, including volume and loudness, can evoke certain emotions or convey authority.
2. The rate at which you speak – the speed and pace – can influence others’ perception of your intelligence and confidence.
3. The frequency of your voice – encompassing pitch and quality – contributes to the overall impression of your personality and emotional state.
4. The inflection, which relates to the voice’s emphasis, contrast, and energy, adds depth and nuance to your communication.
5. The clarity of your enunciation and articulation affects how easily the audience can understand your message and determines their level of engagement with your words.