***Don't Just Talk to Your Audience -- Captivate Them!

There are so many people with so many great messages but the moment they open their mouth to speak, the sound that emanates from their lips is anything but captivating. All too often, we are so preoccupied with the message and subsequent delivery, that we never take into account the vehicle which transports our words.

Just how good do you sound? Have you ever heard yourself on some type of recording equipment – maybe voicemail, an answering machine, or a camcorder? If you have, then you must acknowledge that what you hear when you play back your voice is not what you recognize. Unfortunately, it is exactly how the rest of the world recognizes you. Is what you hear a sound that captivates your listeners or is it something that can them off?

If you squawk when you talk, or squeak when you speak, then you might consider learning how to use your chest cavity to power and amplify your voice. It is simple; it is basic; and, it something that most people are unaware of. I call it your ‘real’ voice and it can only happen when you take the power of your voice away from your throat and allow the largest of your resonators, your chest cavity, to become your sounding board.

What is fascinating about ‘talking from your chest’ is that your voice is much richer, deeper, warmer. And, because of this wonderful resonance, it has the power to captivate your listeners. Not only will you sound better, but the annoying quiver, which may be a symptom of your nervousness, will be gone. Your speed will be under control and your pitch will not suddenly fluctuate at the most inopportune moments.

More good news, however, is that you will not only sound better, but you will also discover the best means of controlling nervousness in any form of public speaking. It doesn’t get any better than that. It is truly amazing to see and to hear the difference when you can control every single word that comes out of your mouth.

It is a power that you have if you are willing to break you old vocal habits and instill some new ones. It is a power that few understand or recognize. You have a better speaking voice just waiting to come out. Imagine delivering a wonderful message with color and emotion by means of a sound that captivates and delights your audience as well!