Thursday, August 30, 2012

FIND YOUR TRUE VOICE


The voice is an essential instrument for the Exceptional Spokesperson. Though not all interview opportunities will entail a voice recording, it is still indispensible for the spoken word to be uttered as clearly, authentically and convincingly as possible. 

Not everyone is a voice talent like an Al Roker or Meredith Vieira. Still, there is a great deal that you can do to improve vocal quality and work with what you have naturally.  In essence, to find your true voice.

Not everyone is a voice talent like Al Roker,
but your own true voice is unique and essential to
becoming the Exceptional Spokesperson.
Listen to your voice from the outside.

You might like to practice your speeches and messages in front of a mirror.  What you will hear is not your true voice.  The sounds coming from your vocal chords remains in your head and are somewhat distorted. You need to listen from the outside.  Record your voice and listen for tonal quality, pauses, and inflections.  Listen to the voice that other people will hear and practice to make it an excellent instrument for communicating.




Protect your voice before an interview.

  1.  Avoid carbonated or aerated drinks before an interview. They can bring on hiccups or belching.
  2. Coffee can give you the jitters.  You will likely be pretty revved up already.
  3.  Stay away from milk or dairy products, cheese included.  They can give you a bad case of mucous mouth.
  4.  Alcohol.  Don’t even think about it.  It will affect your memory, make you perspire and possibly ruin your career.
  5. Drink water.  Not too much.  Not cold, not hot, room temperature is fine.
  6. Smoking (tobacco or other).  A really bad idea.
  7. Gum.  May moisten a dry mouth, but breath mints and water are better.  Never ever talk with gum in your mouth.

Be conversational, like talking to a good friend.

The Exceptional Spokesperson is in peak form when the conversation is relaxed, poised, confident and authentic.  The vocal tone should be authoritative yet natural and warm, like talking to a good friend.

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