Difference between revisions of "Develop a Perfect Speaking Voice"
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| − | + | We have all heard at least one person in our lives whose voice is so beautiful and rich that we enjoy listening to them speak, sometimes regardless of what they are actually saying. While developing perfect vocal intonation and diction can be a lifelong task, a beautiful sounding voice can be obtained in a relatively short amount of time. All you need is a little guidance and some dedicated practice. So if you would like to develop a perfect speaking voice, start with Step 1 below. | |
[[Category:Acting]] | [[Category:Acting]] | ||
| − | [[Category:Speech Styles]] | + | [[Category: Speech Styles]] |
== Steps == | == Steps == | ||
=== Developing Good Speech Habits === | === Developing Good Speech Habits === | ||
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#[[Change Your Voice|Vary your pitch]]. The pitch of your voice can have a real impact on the quality of your speech and the impact it makes on your listeners. In general, speaking in a shaky or unsteady pitch gives the impression of nervousness, while an even voice is more calming and persuasive.<ref name="quick">http://www.quickanddirtytips.com/business-career/public-speaking/how-to-sound-better</ref> | #[[Change Your Voice|Vary your pitch]]. The pitch of your voice can have a real impact on the quality of your speech and the impact it makes on your listeners. In general, speaking in a shaky or unsteady pitch gives the impression of nervousness, while an even voice is more calming and persuasive.<ref name="quick">http://www.quickanddirtytips.com/business-career/public-speaking/how-to-sound-better</ref> | ||
#*Although you shouldn't try to change the natural pitch of your voice (no Darth Vader impressions, please), you should make an effort to control it. Don't let your nerves get the better of you and aim to achieve a fuller, smoother pitch. | #*Although you shouldn't try to change the natural pitch of your voice (no Darth Vader impressions, please), you should make an effort to control it. Don't let your nerves get the better of you and aim to achieve a fuller, smoother pitch. | ||
| − | #*You can practice controlling your pitch by humming a tune, or simply by reading a piece of text aloud to yourself. Keep in mind that it's not necessary to maintain a steady pitch at all times - some words ''should'' be voiced in a higher pitch in order to add emphasis.<ref>http://public-speaking.in/guide/10-tips-to-improve-your-speaking-voice/</ref> | + | #*You can practice controlling your pitch by humming a tune, or simply by reading a piece of text aloud to yourself. Keep in mind that it's not necessary to maintain a steady pitch at all times - some words ''should'' be voiced in a higher pitch in order to add emphasis.<ref name="rf16237">http://public-speaking.in/guide/10-tips-to-improve-your-speaking-voice/</ref> |
=== Practicing Your Speech === | === Practicing Your Speech === | ||
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#See a voice coach. If you're really worried about improving your speaking voice - for something like a debate, speech or presentation - then it might be a good idea to book an appointment with a voice coach. They can identify your individual speech issues and help you to correct them. | #See a voice coach. If you're really worried about improving your speaking voice - for something like a debate, speech or presentation - then it might be a good idea to book an appointment with a voice coach. They can identify your individual speech issues and help you to correct them. | ||
#*A voice coach is also a good idea if you have a native or very colloquial accent that you're trying to minimize or eliminate. [[Lose Your Accent|Getting rid of an accent]] is a difficult thing to do, so seeing a professional can really help. | #*A voice coach is also a good idea if you have a native or very colloquial accent that you're trying to minimize or eliminate. [[Lose Your Accent|Getting rid of an accent]] is a difficult thing to do, so seeing a professional can really help. | ||
| − | #*If seeing a voice coach seems a little extreme, then consider practising in front of a particularly articulate friend or family member. They may be able to pick up on any issues and give you some helpful pointers. This will also help you to feel more confident about speaking in front of others.<ref>http://www.entrepreneur.com/article/183472</ref> | + | #*If seeing a voice coach seems a little extreme, then consider practising in front of a particularly articulate friend or family member. They may be able to pick up on any issues and give you some helpful pointers. This will also help you to feel more confident about speaking in front of others.<ref name="rf16238">http://www.entrepreneur.com/article/183472</ref> |
#Smile as you speak. People will judge you and the content of your speech more favorably if you use an open, friendly, encouraging tone (as opposed to an aggressive, sarcastic or bored one). | #Smile as you speak. People will judge you and the content of your speech more favorably if you use an open, friendly, encouraging tone (as opposed to an aggressive, sarcastic or bored one). | ||
#*A good way to make your tone more friendly and warm is to smile while you speak. Not a crazed grin, mind you, but even a slight upturn of the corners of your mouth can make the sound of your voice more appealing - even over the phone. | #*A good way to make your tone more friendly and warm is to smile while you speak. Not a crazed grin, mind you, but even a slight upturn of the corners of your mouth can make the sound of your voice more appealing - even over the phone. | ||
| − | #*Of course, smiling isn't always appropriate, especially if you're discussing a serious issue. But just remember that inserting emotion into your voice (whatever emotion it may be) can do wonders.<ref>http://womensissues.about.com/od/selfimprovement/a/10-Voice-Tips-For-Women-To-Be-Heard-More.htm</ref> | + | #*Of course, smiling isn't always appropriate, especially if you're discussing a serious issue. But just remember that inserting emotion into your voice (whatever emotion it may be) can do wonders.<ref name="rf16239">http://womensissues.about.com/od/selfimprovement/a/10-Voice-Tips-For-Women-To-Be-Heard-More.htm</ref> |
== Tips == | == Tips == | ||
