Your posture, your image, your voice

1/ Your posture

Stand in front of a mirror – what do you see?

Stand tall but not stiff – imagine there is a thread pulling you up from the top of your head. Keep your neck relaxed on your shoulders and your hands at the side.

Look straight ahead at a point just above your eye level – take a breath and smile.

Soften your jaw, unclench your teeth and relax your tongue.

Check that your weight is evenly distributed, feet slightly apart.

Go through this in your mind and then take up this position before you begin to speak at a meeting or event.

 

2/ Your image

How you look is the first vital message you convey to your audience.

Your audience will make a 5 second judgement as soon as they see you.

Are you smartly dressed and appropriate for the occasion?

Is your hair clean and brushed?

Have you taken two minutes to look in the mirror before entering the room?

Are you doing yourself justice every time you make an appearance?

Looking smart makes you look professional and gives YOU confidence

If you unsure it is worth asking a colleague to give you feedback.

 

3/ Your voice

Your voice is unique and special so take care of it!

Using correct posture will have a direct impact on your vocal ability.

You can help to exercise your voice by humming on a regular basis to exercise the vocal cords.

Slide up and down the scale - repeat this several times daily.

With an open mouth gently hum down your nose – use the “ng” in ring.

Move up and down & play with different notes and speeds to increase flexibility.

If your jaw is stiff say “Yah Yah Yah” several times with your mouth slightly open.

With a good posture, a smart image and a pleasant voice you can make great impact!

Jackie Arnold - Voice Coach