Copyright 2006 Deborah Torres Patel



No matter who you are or what you do, your voice reveals a lot about you. Studies have shown that your vocal qualities account for 84 percent a person's impression of you on the telephone. To have a more likeable and confident telephone voice, follow any or all of these five quick tips.



1. Photo - Look at a photo of someone you love or something that inspires you to remain consistently positive and upbeat.



2. Smile -When we smile our voices naturally become warmer, brighter and friendlier. (Some sales and customer service professionals even put a mirror in front of them while they work to check their attitude.)



3. Stand Up - On an important telephone call or even when you record your voice mail, stand up. This will generate energy in your body and your voice. (If circumstances make it difficult for you to stand, sit alert with your back erect, feet on the floor and buttocks towards the front of your chair.)



4. Script It – Scripting your introductory calls and incoming or outgoing messages can make you sound more articulate and self assured.



• Does your voice mail say something like "Hi! This is (your name). I'm currently unavailable to answer your call. Please leave your name and number and I'll return your call as soon as possible. Thanks a lot and have a great day!"? Or does a computerized voice say, "Box 3709 - leave a message at the tone"?



• Taking a few minutes to write a simple script, practicing it while smiling and standing up, and then recording it while looking at your favorite picture or screensaver, will work wonders to create a better impression and leave people with a positive experience of who you are.



• To have fun with this you can even play your favorite instrumental music in the background of your voicemail.



5. Speak slower – In today's global environment most people do not share the same native tongue. Especially if you are communicating with someone that may be fluent in a language different than your own, slow down and enunciate clearly. This will give your listener time to absorb what you are saying and in some cases adjust to your accent or translate your words back to their first language for improved comprehension.



We all prefer to interact with people we like and relate with. You can authentically share yourself and connect with others by following these simple steps to lift your spirit and your voice. Invest a few minutes to sound better and you will repeatedly reap rewards for your efforts.





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Deborah Torres Patel helps ordinary people become extraordinary communicators. For free voice, presentation, powerful public speaking and video training tips subscribe to her popular newsletter at: http://expressingyou.com