TLDR;
This video by Vinh Giang discusses how to improve your communication skills by understanding and mastering your voice. It covers key aspects such as vocal foundations, dealing with nerves, and building confidence. The video emphasizes that your voice is an instrument that can be trained to connect with others more effectively.
- Your voice is a series of behaviors that can be changed.
- Mastering your voice involves understanding rate of speech, volume, pitch, tonality, and pausing.
- Building confidence involves improvisation and focusing on delivering value to the audience.
Your voice is just a series of behaviours [0:00]
The way you speak is a series of behaviors that can be changed. You are not trapped in your voice; you can alter your mouth movements, airflow, and articulations to sound different. Many people stick to the same vocal patterns throughout their lives, missing the opportunity to explore the full potential of their voice.
5 vocal foundations of brilliant communication [1:49]
There are five core foundations of brilliant communication: rate of speech, volume, pitch, tonality, and pausing. Varying your rate of speech can make your communication more engaging, with faster speech conveying passion and slower speech adding emphasis. Volume indicates confidence and authority, with many people speaking too quietly. Pitch involves using melody in your voice to make what you say more memorable, like a song. Tonality is the emotion underneath your words, controlled by body language and facial expressions. Finally, pausing gives listeners time to comprehend and allows the speaker to process information.
HOT SEAT Communication Coaching [9:26]
When presenting ideas, structuring your thoughts is crucial to avoid rambling and maintain credibility. Using frameworks like the 321 approach—providing three concise points, then two supporting details, and finally one key takeaway—can help structure your speech. Focus on delivery by using hand gestures, increasing volume, and ending sentences on a lower pitch to convey authority. Pausing after powerful statements allows the message to resonate more effectively.
How to improve your accent [14:26]
To improve your accent, record a 20-minute video of yourself speaking and send it to a speech pathologist. Ask them to identify words you are mispronouncing and to teach you the correct mouth movements for those words. Also, send the same video to an ESL teacher to identify grammatical errors. Focus on practicing one correction at a time to avoid feeling overwhelmed. Improving articulation and pronunciation enhances how intelligent you are perceived.
The most important thing in a job interview [18:04]
The most important thing in a job interview is forming a connection with the interviewer. People tend to do business with people they like, so building rapport is essential. Prepare for common questions like "Tell me about yourself" by crafting a compelling story that links to the job. Invest time in building connection and rapport, as employers often prioritize likability and potential over qualifications.
Why you need to focus on your vocal image [25:16]
Focus on your vocal image as much as your visual image. People make assumptions about you based on your vocal tone, such as whether you are friendly, trustworthy, intelligent, or a good leader. Train your voice to build rapport and trust, connecting more effectively with others.
Emulate your favourite speakers [26:55]
To become a great communicator, emulate speakers you admire. Copy their techniques and methods, gradually adding your own unique elements. Imitation is a valuable learning tool, helping you build confidence and develop your style.
How to deal with nerves before you present [28:43]
To manage nerves before presenting, address both your body and mindset. Use Wim Hof breathing techniques to relax your body and mind. Engage in quick exercise to reduce excess adrenaline, preventing shaking and non-functional movements. Shift your focus from yourself to the audience, concentrating on delivering value rather than fearing judgment.
Start seeing your voice as an instrument [33:52]
View your voice as an instrument with many keys, like a piano. Be willing to explore different vocal ranges and styles, even if they feel unfamiliar. Refrain from labeling new vocal techniques as fake or phony; instead, recognize that you are simply unfamiliar with those keys.
The secret to building your confidence [35:59]
Improv classes can significantly boost your confidence. Improv enhances conversation skills, allowing you to navigate unpredictable interactions. The ability to improvise gives you confidence, even when you don't know the answer, because you can adapt and respond effectively.
Why you need to speak louder [38:21]
Most people need to speak louder to amplify their ideas and attract opportunities. If you are naturally quiet, practice using more volume, but be aware that it may feel uncomfortable initially. Seek out neutral ears—people who don't know your typical behavior—to practice new vocal techniques without judgment. Recognize that fear is an illusion and that mastering your voice can transform your connections with others.
