Over the last couple of weeks, many new voices have been heard on radio and television. The Olympians who have trained, focussed and succeeded in achieving medals have spoken. During epic swimming, cycling, running, gymnastic and equine events, knowledgeable commentators have offered their expertise and opinion as to what is going on.
It has been very interesting to hear different accents and vocal tones broadcasting during the Olympics. Voices vary so much, ranging from strong regional accents, to blended accents, to modern received pronunciation (RP). The key factor however, is not the accent – it’s the passion and knowledge that is conveyed by the commentators’ voices.
When I coach clients who have either a regional accent or a non-British accent, I encourage clarity above all. If you want people to understand you, it is paramount to speak clearly, using pauses and intonation to help get your messages across. The passion and subject knowledge is also a part of great communication, but without a great delivery style, your listener can be lost.
What’s the key to 1) being understood and 2) getting your audience hooked?
Let’s investigate each point about effective communication, using the Olympic commentators as an example.
1. How can I be better understood when I am making a speech?
The secret to making a good speech, or commentating, is to speak clearly. Use the power of the sounds of the words you are making. Keep your speech relevant to the points you are making. Remember your audience and what they want to hear about the subject. Make your content interesting, as you may have to speak for a long period about one topic.
- Speak clearly
- Use the words powerfully
- Include relevant facts in your speech
- Speak to your audience
- Be interesting.
2. How can I get my audience hooked?
Before you even think about speaking to your audience, conduct some research into who your audience is. Your listening audience will vary, of course, but if you are speaking to enthusiasts, like equestrians, or swimmers, or athletes, they are predisposed to listen to interesting facts about their sport. Convey your emotion through your voice and take your listeners with you.
- Research your topic thoroughly
- Present interesting facts about your subject
- Make your speech relevant to your listeners
- Use your voice to convey your emotion
- Take your audience on a journey.
The voices commentating on every one of the Olympian events come from experts in their field. Commentators at the Olympics give us spoken information in a huge range of styles and accents which combine to create a joyous audio tapestry of creative expertise.
The take-away from this month’s newsletter is this: Worry less about your accent and focus more on your clarity. When you speak from your heart, your passion will be heard, but make sure it’s understandable.
For more information or help with preparing your speech, please get in touch with voice experts at Voice Synergy for a free consultation.