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Speak Expressively

Techniques > Public speaking > Speaking Tips > Speak Expressively

Description | Example | Discussion | See also

Description

Make full use of your voice to express emotions and the meaning of what you say. Vary your voice, changing pitch, volume, speed and the general sound you create.

For example when talking about about something exciting, you could you a higher-pitched breathy voice, whilst when talking about commands, you could be loud and deep.

Match this with your body language, using gestures to shape words and being animated or still to convey feelings such as excitement and sorrow.

Example

A person giving a eulogy at a funeral talks about the life of the deceased, speaking quietly about their sad times and laughing about the funny things that happened.

Discussion

Actors learn expression to present their characters and the story with conviction. You too can be more convincing in your speeches and presentations by thinking of this model and speaking perhaps as an actor.

Modulation of the voice adds interest by varying the pitch. You can also create emphasis through increases in volume, pitch and speed as well as signifying this with sudden body movements.

Expression comes naturally when you believe in what you are saying and present with real passion and concern. In doing so, you will infect the audience with your enthusiasm.

The reverse of speaking expressively is a flat monotone that conveys no interest and demands no engagement.