Approximately 40 percent of what we communicate verbally to others is perceived through our vocal qualities—that is, tone, pitch, and pace of delivery. An important first step toward improving your voice is to hear yourself as others do.
Directions: Listen to several recordings of your voice on a tape recorder or VCR and then complete the following rating form. Place a check in the appropriate column for each quality listed.
Quality | Major Strength | Strength | Weakness | Major Weakness |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Projects confidence | ||||
Projects enthusiasm | ||||
Projects optimism | ||||
Projects sincerity | ||||
Projects calmness | ||||
Voice is not too high or too low | ||||
Voice is not too loud or too soft | ||||
Speaking rate is not too fast or too slow |
Review any weak areas and identify some actions that you can take to improve these qualities.
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To the Facilitator
Make tape recorder and/or VCR equipment and tapes available to group members, either in the classroom setting or in an office space that is accessible to all; or ask individuals to perform the recordings at home. If the recordings are to be done as part of a class, they can be especially effective when performed as a part of a role-play exercise. A group discussion can be formed around specific actions that can be taken to improve weak areas.