Voice Techniques at a Glance
Bite-sized techniques you can apply immediately to improve your leadership communication
Breathing
The 4-2-4 Breath
Inhale deeply for 4 counts, hold for 2, exhale for 4. Do this before any important conversation to centre yourself and project calm confidence.
From Episode 2 →Breath Support
Breathe from your diaphragm, not your chest. Place your hand on your belly—it should expand as you inhale. This gives your voice power and resonance.
From Episode 2 →Posture
The String Technique
Imagine a string pulling you up from the crown of your head. This naturally aligns your spine and opens your chest for better breathing and vocal projection.
From Episode 3 →Feet Flat, Shoulders Back
Whether sitting or standing, keep your feet flat on the floor and shoulders relaxed but back. This posture instantly improves your voice quality.
From Episode 3 →Clarity
Articulate Consonants
Crisp consonants make your message clear. Practice saying 'Peter Piper picked' or 'Red lorry, yellow lorry' to sharpen articulation.
From Episode 4 →Slow Down by 20%
Most managers speak too quickly under pressure. Consciously slow your pace by about 20%—your team will absorb more and you'll sound more authoritative.
From Episode 7 →Variety
Pitch Variation
Vary your pitch to emphasise key points. Lift your voice slightly for questions or excitement, lower it for authority or seriousness.
From Episode 5 →The Power of Pause
Pause before and after important points. Silence creates emphasis and gives listeners time to process what you've said.
From Episode 5 →Volume
Project, Don't Shout
Speak from your diaphragm to project your voice without straining. Imagine sending your voice to the back of the room, not just the person in front of you.
From Episode 6 →Match the Environment
Adjust your volume to the space. In small meetings, moderate volume builds intimacy. In larger settings, project more to maintain energy.
From Episode 6 →Tone
Warm Up Your Voice
Before important meetings, hum gently for 30 seconds. This warms up your vocal cords and adds warmth to your tone.
From Episode 8 →Smile While Speaking
Even on phone calls, smiling genuinely changes your tone—it sounds warmer and more approachable. Your team can hear it.
From Episode 8 →Word Choice
Use Active Language
Say 'We will complete this by Friday' instead of 'This should be done by Friday.' Active, definite language builds confidence.
From Episode 9 →Avoid Filler Words
Replace 'um,' 'ah,' and 'like' with brief pauses. Silence is more powerful than filler and makes you sound more confident.
From Episode 9 →