Have you ever heard the saying, “It’s not what you say, it’s how you say it”? It’s true!
To gain new skills to master communication, consider using Communication Skills Training Course offered by pdtraining in Auckland, Christchurch and other cities in New Zealand.
Gain new knowledge in communication
Many attempts to communicate are nullified by saying too much.
Robert Greenleaf
Try saying these three sentences out loud, placing the emphasis on the underlined word.
“I didn’t say you were wrong.” (Implying it wasn’t me)
“I didn’t say you were wrong.” (Implying I communicated it in another way)
“I didn’t say you were wrong.” (Implying I said something else)
Now, let’s look at the three parts of paraverbal communication; which is the message told through the pitch, tone, and speed of our words when we communicate to staff.
The Power of Pitch
Pitch can be most simply defined as the key of your voice. A high pitch is often interpreted as anxious or upset. A low pitch sounds more serious and authoritative. People will pick up on the pitch of your voice and react to it. As well, variation in the pitch of your voice is important to keep the other party interested.
If you naturally speak in a very high-pitched or low-pitched voice, work on varying your pitch to encompass all ranges of your vocal cords. (One easy way to do this is to relax your throat when speaking.) Make sure to pay attention to your body when doing this – you don’t want to damage your vocal cords.
The Truth about Tone
Did your mother ever say to you, “I don’t like that tone!” She was referring to the combination of various pitches to create a mood. (Speed, which we will discuss in the next module, can also have an effect on your tone.)
Here are some communication tips on creating a positive, authoritative tone.
Try lowering the pitch of your voice a bit.
Smile! This will warm up anyone’s voice.
Sit up straight and listen.
Monitor your inner monologue. Negative thinking will seep into the tone of your voice.
The Strength of Speed
The pace at which you speak also has a tremendous effect on your communication ability. From a practical perspective, someone who speaks quickly in Wellington is harder to understand than someone who speaks at a moderate pace. Conversely, someone who speaks v-e—r—-y s—l—–o—w—l—y will probably lose their audience’s interest before they get very far!
Speed also has an effect on the tone and emotional quality of your message. A hurried pace can make the listener feel anxious and rushed. A slow pace can make the listener feel as though your message is not important. A moderate pace will seem natural, and will help the listener focus on your message.
One easy way to check your pitch, tone, and speed is to record yourself speaking. Think of how you would feel listening to your own voice. Practice speaking the way you would like to be spoken to.
Pdtraining delivers 1000’s of professional development courses each year in Wellington, Auckland, Napier, Christchurch, Hamilton, Dunedin and Tauranga, so you can be assured your training will be delivered by a qualified and experienced trainer.
All public Communication Skills Training courses include am/pm tea, lunch, printed courseware and a certificate of completion. Customised courses are available upon request so please contact pdtraining on 1300 121 400 to learn more.
