Why Should I Change the Way I Speak?
Why Change Your Voice?
The Long-Term Impact of
Speech, Voice and Communication Training
If you're happy with how you speak, don't change it. But if there's something about your voice or speech that you feel isn't working for you, why not explore what's possible?
Just as you might update your style or appearance to feel more confident, you can also refine the way you communicate. Your voice and speech aren't set in stone—they're shaped by a combination of physical factors, linguistic background, societal influence, personal experiences, and learned habits. Most people just don't realize just how malleable and adaptable their voices are!
Appearance plays a role in how you're perceived, no doubt. But your voice and the way you speak? It's how people truly experience you—and often, how they form their impression of who you are. Even more importantly, it shapes how you see yourself.
Common Challenges in Communication
Common Communication Challenges: Do Any of These Sound Familiar?
- Speaking too softly can make you seem unsure of yourself. People might stop asking you to repeat things, which can lead to missed opportunities—professionally and socially.
- Talking too fast might come across as nervous or scattered, even if you're confident.
- A monotone voice risks losing people's attention altogether.
- Trailing off or mumbling frustrates listeners and undermines your message.
- Upspeak or glottal fry may sound less professional, even though they're common in casual speech.
- Strong accents—while part of your identity—can create barriers if they make you hard to understand.
What Influences Your Voice and Speech?
Your voice and speech patterns are shaped by:
- Your Anatomy: The physical makeup of your vocal folds, mouth and throat impacts how you sound, as does body shape.
- Habits and Technique: How you breathe, articulate, and project your voice can significantly affect clarity and tone.
- Personal History: Your cultural background, family, and social environment leave a lasting imprint on your speech.
The Personal and Professional Benefits
Refining your speech and communication skills can:
- Boost Confidence: Speak with clarity and authority in any setting.
- Enhance Connections: Build stronger relationships through effective communication.
- Advance Your Career: Project professionalism and leadership in meetings, presentations, and interviews.
- Align with Your Goals: Ensure your voice reflects who you truly are and how you want to be perceived.
A Voice Makeover That Lasts
A facial or a quick makeover might make you feel good for a day or two, but changing how you speak? That's a transformation with real staying power. When you feel good about your voice, it shifts how you interact with the world—and how the world responds to you.
Why It's Hard to Change Speech Habits
Speech patterns are deeply rooted in who we are. They're habits that have formed over years, often without us realizing. Trying to change them on your own can be overwhelming—especially when they're tied to identity or confidence.
For example, I worked with a woman in upper management whose role required her to lead meetings and give occasional presentations. She felt her voice wasn't loud enough, deep enough, or strong enough to convey authority and executive presence. She simply had never been shown what her voice was capable of and how she could use it to serve her purposes—voices within her that had never been fully cultivated. Understanding her own voice's power boosted her confidence and helped her step into her role with greater assurance.
Working with a professional makes the process more manageable. It's about identifying habits, understanding their impact, and gradually building new ones that help you feel confident, credible, and authentic.
Could Your Voice Use a Little Shaping?
If you've ever wondered how small adjustments to your speech could make a big impact on how you're heard and perceived, let's talk. Whether you're looking to enhance your voice, refine your communication style, or explore your unique goals, I'm here to help you take the next step.