How finding your voice is good for business…
The computer age has created a generation of employees who lack the most basic communication skills, according to an expert in the field.
The increasing practise of sending emails to colleagues in the same room is an example of how people are shying away from speaking to one another. This barrier to speaking confidently is likely to hold back employees and put a lid on success when it comes to face-to-face meetings and presentations at management level, having a knock-on effect for the entire business.
“I’ve heard from recruitment agencies that because prospective employees have spent so much time on their computers, their voices seem to have fallen asleep,” said South West voice expert Debbie Chatting.
“In the workplace people have lost the habit of speaking to other people in their office and they send them emails instead. This is a 21st century phenomenon which is creating barriers and it’s detrimental to both the employee and their employers.
“As well as staff not speaking to each other being bad for the workplace environment, it also limits effectiveness and creativity. And they get so out of practice that when it comes to making a presentation, even when it’s in their field of expertise, they find it a huge challenge.
“My advice is, ‘walk across the office and speak to someone, face to face’. If you practise using your voice effectively by speaking with clarity and interest, you will also be more interesting and people will listen to you. You will develop a stronger persona. And speaking can bring positive energy and vivacity to the workplace, which sending an email can never do.”
Debbie has given talks internationally and has coached barristers, broadcasters, actors and businesses: “Why do you think MPs and top sportsmen and celebrities have voice coaching? It’s because they know how important it is to have an engaging voice that people want to listen to.
“If you have a confident, interesting voice, people are more likely to listen to you and this makes you more influential. In the workplace and your home life, this can bring significant benefits.”
Debbie is holding an event at Exeter Court Hotel on 26 April where she will be helping people to discover how to make the most of their voice: “It’s about developing self-confidence, using breath correctly and using a range of vocal expression.
“Once you’ve been trained in these skills and you practise what you learn, it becomes second nature. Your views are important so make sure they are voiced. Your life can change significantly if your voice is free."
Contact: Call Debbie Chatting on 0777 926 6150 or email debbie.chatting@hotmail.co.uk
