Do you sound believable and conversational?

By Deb Sofield, Public Speaking Coach

Over the next few weeks, join Deb Sofield as she goes through her series 15 Rules for the Physician Leader, where she outlines how a physician leader can be successful when speaking, no matter where they are...

Rule #2. Vary Your Voice- it is important that you work at sounding believable and conversational.

Your voice is part of your personal signature. It is a powerful instrument and speaks volumes about your confidence, your clarity, and your kindness. Your voice conveys levels of interest, enthusiasm, and energy.

It is important to speak with energy and enthusiasm and to hit the highs and lows in your voice. If you are telling a big story – your voice should go up and be full – if you’re telling a serious or sad story your voice should drop and be more distinctive.

Why? Because how we speak can make a difference in the meaning of what we say and the listener’s interpretation of what we said.

As a doctor your voice conveys more than you probably think it does since your patient is hanging on to every word and trying to discern any nuance in your voice as to their health. It is important that you understand the value of your voice that gives meaning to what you say. Varying your voice can be both crucial and key to your bedside manner.

Deb's Tip of the Month

If you find yourself stressed and your voice starts to rise or get high pitched, quick tempo'd, or strained – stop and take a deep breath – the deep breath will allow you to drop back down to your proper voice range so you will not sound stressed, but rather, in control. Remember deep breathing changes every sound.