Studies show 97% of what we communicate by phone is by vocal tone.
That means only 3% of your message is understood from the actual words.
Voice coach Karen Lyu suggests: Imagine you’re at a meeting, and you hear someone say “Hello” with a nervous, giggly nasal voice — or a muffled, monotone mumble. What messages are you getting?
Now imagine a radio announcer saying “Hello” with a clear, warm and projected voice.
Did you notice your body reacting in a different way? How did it make you feel?
So what are some simple things you can do right now improve your voice — and make people sit up and listen?
- 1. Keep your throat and mouth relaxed (exercise by yawning or saying “Wow” before a meeting)
- 2. Speak clearly at medium speed
- 3. Smile while you talk, and people will hear the difference (for phone conversations, a mirror nearby can help to remind yourself)
- 4. Sit up at the edge of your seat to keep your body aligned (or stand and walk)
- 5. Drink water or tea with lemon and honey (soda, alcohol, and coffee will dehydrate your throat)
These quick tips could help you to speak with a healthy, understandable, warm and resonant voice so that people stay focused and interested in what you have to say.
3 Responses to “Why No One Listens to You”
Raissa
Thanks for these tips! I find something that also helps me is not being offended by being interrupted. If someone is interrupting you, they are clearly more invested in what they want to say. So wait until they are finished, and try to relate your point to what they just said. It makes them feel heard, and may get you heard as well!
Kathleen Jaap, CPA, MA
This applies at home too!
CPA Review
These are great tips! What also helps me is to have something in my hand whether it be a pen, presentation pointer, or something similar. I’m sure it’s purely psychological but it reduces the stress when presenting.