In our daily discourse, we tend to “stream data” rather than consistently communicating effectively. We all have a tendency to speak too quickly, we don’t breathe tactically, we tend to pitch our voices too high – especially when rushing or in stressful situations – and much more. The over-arching theme of this blog is that in Communication Mastery, a fundamental principle is that it is no longer merely the message but also the messenger that matters. It is not simply what we say but how we say it.
In order to implement this thesis, I would like you practice three things. First, record yourself reading 30 seconds from a professional document relevant to the work you do at your company. Before listening to your recording, practice these tips:
- Take one minute to sit or stand comfortably.
- Allow five to seven seconds for a very slow, completely silent, relaxing inhalation. Release any tongue or jaw tension, allowing the tip of your tongue to rest gently against your bottom teeth.
- With your lips gently together, hum a pitch, not loudly but somewhat nasally (this enhances resonance in our speaking voice.) Descend on this pitch to the bottom range of your voice.
Standing or sitting comfortably and speaking from the pitch you just ended on, read and record the statement again after a five- to seven-second silent inhalation. When you have finished, play both recordings back. Identify the differences and take notes.
A few Vocal Awareness axioms are relevant to this exercise:
- Speed is only speed. In communication, it is never how fast, but rather how effective, that matters. Nothing is gained by going too fast, but potentially everything could be lost, including understanding, authenticity and confidence.
- Space has value. A song without a rest is not the same piece of music – thus the importance of tactical breathing.
- We don’t realize how much work it takes to be ourselves while others watch or listen.
As you discover the benefit of allowing a strategic breath, recognize your optimal pitch level for public speaking, and understand how critical it is to never rush your communication. Then, you will be on your way to understanding what it takes to be the leader and training manager you are truly capable of being.
This fundamental exploration will enable you to consistently express yourself as you choose to in every encounter – personal or professional – as authentically and effectively as possible. Never again will you present who you are. You now have the capability to be who you are in full Conscious Awareness.
One final axiom: Mastery lies in the subtlety of our experience. The nuances you will discover are not trivial; they are subtle and lead to profound changes in your communication and leadership style.
