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How to speak so people will listen…
This was something I personally had to learn – speaking up didn’t come naturally to me.
I was hesitant and didn’t feel comfortable when multiple sets of eyes were on me.
However, leadership requires you to speak. And specifically, to speak in a way that commands attention.
There’s one simple thing you can do.
And it doesn’t only work on stage or in a presentation – it also works when speaking up in meetings.
“I speak to be heard and understood, not just to fill the silence.”
Raise your volume
No… this doesn’t mean to yell or shout. In fact, you can have a soft and calm voice – and still captivate. But it can’t be a whisper.
Increase your voice’s volume to sound full and confident.
It’s about being louder while having a controlled tone.
Try these:
– Take a deep breath and relax.
When you are stressed or anxious, your body tightens, and the muscles in your throat constrict making your voice smaller.
– Improve your posture.
Hold your chest high and drop your shoulders. This helps your lungs to fully expand, giving more airflow.
A strong posture also increases confidence.
– Open your throat.
Your volume will increase with more airflow. Pretend to yawn. Use that muscle action when you speak to increase the amount of air you are using.
Don’t be afraid to fill the room (or virtual room) with your voice.
Take up space.
You deserve to be there.
You deserve to be heard.
“I speak to be heard and understood, not just to fill the silence.”
Oprah Winfrey
American Host and Television Producer
