Voice and Speaking Skills For Dummies

Introduction

Your voice is so much part of who you are! You can’t leave home without it, and every time you open your mouth it’s your voice that comes out. You’re probably already well aware of this fact because you picked up this book. What if you opened your mouth and people hung on your every word? What if people understood you better – and even appreciated you when you spoke? If you like these ideas, read on!

I’ve worked with literally hundreds of people in one-to-one consultations and in workshops, and had the pleasure of witnessing again and again the positive life changes that come when you successfully develop your voice. Some people come to me in such fear and trepidation, they can scarcely walk through the door; others consult me to prepare for important international presentations or media interviews. In each case, voice improvement is accompanied by a new inner confidence. They find their voice in every sense. That will happen for you too.

When your voice is strong and expressive, doors open for you. Most professions welcome people who sound good and can speak well. People form remarkably fixed and strong opinions based on your voice. I’m sure that you’ve heard remarks from time to time like, ‘she sounds intelligent’ or ‘he sounds friendly’. Promotion often depends on your voice. Relationships blossom or founder on it.

But you also probably know several people who are unaware of just how much their voices are liabilities. You’d like to spend more time with them, but ...