6 Techniques to Improve Executive Voice Skills
Effective communication lies at the heart of successful leadership. I have heard leadership experts say that for years. I have sat with high-level executives that talk about the value of dynamic communication skills but then do nothing to invest in improving their own communication skills. Leadership_communication, Executive_Voice_Skills For executive leaders, mastering the art of communication goes beyond just conveying information – it's about inspiring, influencing, and guiding their teams. A crucial aspect of this skill set is the executive's voice, which carries the weight of authority, authenticity, and charisma. To elevate leadership Communication and leadership prowess, I am going to share 6 Techniques to Improve Executive Voice Skills.
Get a Voice/Media Coach: Engage in professional voice coaching sessions to identify areas for improvement and receive tailored guidance. A voice coach can help executives improve their tone, pitch, pace, and resonance to command attention and convey messages more effectively. Do you want to stand out from the crowd as a leader and communicator? Do what most do not do: get a coach to help you shine brighter.
Articulation Exercises: Clear articulation ensures that words are enunciated distinctly. Tongue twisters and other articulation exercises help executive leaders become more coherent and easily understood speakers. Your voice is your instrument; learn how it works and tune it up, just like a professional would do.
Record and Analyze: Recording speeches or presentations enables self-evaluation. By listening to their recordings, leaders can pinpoint areas of improvement, such as vocal clarity, pacing issues, or unnecessary filler words. I remember my earliest days of broadcasting school; recording my voice and listening to it was painful. But I learned to hear my voice as others did and not what I heard in my head. It made a radical change in how I learned to speak and present. By the way, I still do this regularly, even after 30 years as a professional broadcaster.
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4. Storytelling Workshops:
Storytelling is a powerful tool for leaders to convey their vision and values. Participating in storytelling workshops can refine narrative skills, making messages more relatable and memorable. Storytelling will help you connect better with people and move your words from people's heads to their hearts.
5. Listening Skills:
Effective communication is a two-way street. Enhancing listening skills enables leaders to respond thoughtfully, show empathy and understanding, and build stronger team connections. Learn the power of "Active Listening".
6. Video Practice: Observing oneself while speaking helps identify unconscious habits that may distract from effective communication. Executives can identify posture issues, facial expressions, and gestures needing adjustment. Years ago, I stood before a mirror and practiced my keynotes to improve my body language and non-verbal skills. Today, open up a Zoom or Google video box and record yourself. Learn and grow by seeing yourself as others see you.
Enhancing voice skills isn't just about sounding more authoritative; it's about building a stronger connection with team members, fostering trust, and inspiring action. As leaders refine their voice skills, they elevate their communication and, consequently, their leadership impact.
The journey to becoming a more effective communicator and leader begins with honing voice skills. These techniques will help you as a leader convey messages more effectively and create a lasting impact on your teams, foster collaboration, and drive organizational success. With dedication, coaching, and practice, you can elevate your voice as an executive leader and become the exceptional communicators your roles demand.
Rich “Trigger” Bontrager is the creator and host of How To Rock the Stage Show, airing live each Wednesday night. Rich hosts and produces other shows, live streams, and media events. Entrepreneurs, executives, and speakers hire Rich to unleash their brand authority by learning media-savvy skills that help them shine on camera and stage.
You can reach Trigger at rich@richbontrager.net