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So says the inner critic, that negative voice that loves to bring you down right when you’re trying to stand tall. Sound familiar? If it does, how often does it pop up? How does it make you feel? What gets it going? Think you’re the only one dealing with this? Hit pause for a second and write down what you’re noticing. In this post, I want to help you understand how negative self-talk can hold you back; what might trigger it; and reassure you that it’s not a new thing and it’s definitely not just a "you" thing. How negative self-talk can hold us back Research shows that negative self-talk can really hold us back. This habit of telling ourselves we're not good enough can affect us both personally and professionally. Studies show that constant self-criticism leads to more stress, depression, and a sense of being stuck, which can really mess with our mental health. Negative self-talk often stems from our deepest insecurities and fears and exaggerates our flaws. It acts like a roadblock to success. Scaring us away from taking chances or chasing opportunities because we fear failure. This habit doesn't just stop us from seeing what we're truly capable of; it also makes it tougher for us to bounce back when things go wrong. Constantly talking ourselves down causes anxiety and lowers self-esteem, which can lead us to do things that just keep proving those negative thoughts right. It's a tough cycle to break out of. But break out of it we can, through tiny habits and focus. Understanding the triggers Once we can understand what triggers that negative voice, we can anticipate and prepare for it, rather than be ambushed by it. Pretty much anything that makes us feel excited but also a bit vulnerable can wake up our inner critic. Like starting something new - joining a new team, kicking off a new job or relationship, moving to a different country, launching a business, or especially starting tiny new habits. Other people can set it off too, especially if we’re not familiar with them, don’t get along, or if we really admire them or think they’re smarter, more successful, or more experienced than us. Feeling physically or mentally low, like being tired, hormonal, sick, or just down, can trigger it as well. As can doing stuff that puts us in the spotlight, like speaking a new language, speaking in public, or sharing controversial or innovative ideas. The list goes on. I’ve seen thousands of people get tripped up by these triggers. What triggers would you add to the list? Share your thoughts in the comments below. You are not alone! People often feel they’re the only one to have an inner critic. They look at their colleagues and say: “They’ve got their act together—they’re smarter, more knowledgeable, just better at getting things done.” Comparing yourself to others unfavourably? That's a classic move by the inner critic! And, like other triggers, 'comparisonitis' is a very common thing, making you feel as though ‘there’s something wrong with you’. Just like Imposter Syndrome can. Syndrome? No. I prefer to call it "the human condition". Who doesn’t doubt themselves at times? No-one I’ve ever met. How can I say that? Because I routinely ask roomfuls of people to stay seated if they don’t have an inner critic, and, guess what, suddenly, almost everyone’s standing up! Doubting ourselves is just part of being human, not a syndrome or disorder. Everyone, at some point, feels like they're not good enough. Even those who always appear confident and successful on the outside. Knowing this allows us to be gentler with ourselves and makes it okay to discuss and address our doubts together. It also means we can begin to listen to the inner critic more rationally and with curiosity. Surprisingly, when we do that, we’ll likely hear things that can actually be helpful to know and useful to act on. Things that we can focus on and develop - because despite all the negative chatter, the inner critic has a positive intention. More on that in a later post but for now, take a first step towards tackling your inner critic by recognising your own triggers and how negative self-talk might be holding you back both personally and professionally. The Business Voice Coach Mindset is just one of many topics explored in my flagship programme Make Your Mark with Susan Room®. A transformative four-step framework specifically designed to help business people develop the four pillars of effective communication. Learn More #businessvoicecoach #innercritic #mindset #makeyourmark

Redundancy. Burnout. Work-Life Imbalance. Cost Of Living Crisis... These are the subjects my coaching clients are increasingly discussing during coaching sessions in these turbulent times. There's a lot of emotion out there right now, and most of it is far from positive. Which makes me wonder how HR professionals are coping. Chatting with them reminds me how amazingly tough, committed, and resourceful they are. How often they are unnoticed, under-appreciated, and so focused on getting coaching for others they don't have time for it themselves. And how fostering psychological safety is currently a burning issue for them. "Our people crave a workplace where they can freely express themselves, and be their true, authentic selves, without fear of judgement, discrimination or retaliation", they say. Free expression is hard at the best of times, but even harder when there's so much fear around. Which there is. And everyone is feeling it. Enter the art and science of vocal and executive presence. By developing their vocal and executive presence HR leaders can: Reduce fear in themselves, their team and their organisation, making the conversations they really don't want to have - the difficult ones - a touch easier. Elevate their personal brand (have you ever contemplated the role your voice plays in shaping your reputation)? Foster an inclusive culture where every voice is respected, enhancing psychological safety, organisational well-being and performance. Inspire trust in leadership, boosting employee resilience and a more cohesive and supportive workplace. Be the calming and stabilising force their people so desperately need during uncertain times. But what is vocal and executive presence and how can HR leaders convey it? Demystifying Vocal and Executive Presence The foundation of effective leadership, vocal and executive presence is the non-verbal language that speaks volumes. It elevates an individual from just being in the room to being memorable, allowing them to captivate an audience with an unseen aura and a strong, warm voice that command attention and exude an unmistakable approachable authority. Whether walking into a board room or one-to-one redundancy conversation it's the impact that lingers long after the words are long forgotten. For HR Leaders, Chief People Officers, and Talent Development Professionals, understanding - and helping their people understand - these forms of presence is not just insightful — it's indispensable. - Defining Vocal Presence Vocal presence, at its core, is all about reflecting inner confidence and conviction through the human voice. It's about speaking in a way that causes others to listen, capturing and holding their attention and effortlessly guiding them to understand and connect with our message. A well-honed vocal presence can make a real difference to careers, negotiations, and relationships. "Vocal presence is the ability to speak in a way that makes others want to listen." - Susan Room. - Decoding Executive Presence Executive presence, the kind that grabs attention when you speak, is a combination of personal style, communication abilities and physical confidence that conveys authority and inspires others. It's lighter than gravitas, (a weighty Latin word with unhelpful male overtones), more attainable than charisma. Both types of presence are particularly important when it comes to getting stakeholders on board, shaping company culture, and smoothly handling difficult situations and conversations with confidence and authority. Neither is a birth right. They can be learned. Cultivating Vocal and Executive Presence in Critical HR Scenarios - Delivering Difficult Messages with Impact As an HR leader, you will often find yourself in the difficult position of delivering bad news or leading challenging conversations. Having a strong vocal and executive presence can help you navigate these scenarios with greater finesse and confidence. By projecting confidence, warmth, and authority through your voice and body language, you can ease some of the tension and make the message easier to receive. This can help maintain psychological safety in the workplace and foster a culture of open communication, even during turbulent times. - Embracing Diversity and Inclusion Key elements of vocal presence involve recognizing, addressing, and reducing vocal bias in yourself and others, and establishing connections through your voice. By understanding different communication styles and adapting your own, you can create an inclusive environment where every voice is valued and heard. This not only fosters psychological safety but also enhances organisational performance by utilising the diverse perspectives and talents of your team. - Leading with Confidence and Resilience Executive presence involves exuding confidence, even in stressful situations. As an HR leader, you may face difficult decisions or resistance from stakeholders. By developing a strong vocal presence, you can inspire trust in your leadership and be a calming influence during uncertain times. This can help your team build resilience and navigate turbulence with confidence and stability. Ready to Develop Your Vocal and Executive Presence as an HR Leader? By developing your vocal and executive presence, you can become an even more effective and influential leader, fostering psychological safety, promoting inclusivity, and inspiring trust in your teams and organisations. If you're an HR Leader, Chief People Officer, or Talent Development Professional, start your journey by booking my Vocal and Executive Presence Workshop for you and your team. Delivered virtually, it’s 60 or 90 minutes long (you choose) and will give your people powerful insights and a toolkit they can use straightway.

Picture the scene. You're about to go into a high stakes meeting, conversation or presentation. You've done your prep, got your slide deck and are ready to blow your audience away. You're feeling good... Then, out of nowhere... Your inner critic screams, "You're going to mess up!" Your hands become clammy. Your throat goes dry. And your heart starts racing as if there's no tomorrow. Before you know it, it's your turn to speak. But when you do, instead of sounding clear and resonant, your voice cracks and shakes, oozing fear and weakness instead of confidence and authority. Hearing it makes you speed up ("You need to get out of here, fast"), causing you to stumble, mumble and lose track of what you were saying. Your audience looks irritated ("They think you're a fraud"), some exit the room, others get out their phones, leaving you wishing the floor would open and swallow you up. Finally, the torment over, you escape, convinced "you're never going to be a good communicator" and determined to avoid any opportunity that will put you through the same humiliation again. The 6th speaking secret If you've worked with me, you'll know about the 5 Speaking Secrets TED speakers use to make their talks so engaging. But, let me share with you a 6th lesser-known secret that can make all the difference to your mindset and vocal delivery: The Vagus Nerve. But what is it and how can we tap into its power? Introducing your vagus nerve The vagus nerve - also known as the "wandering nerve" due to its extensive network throughout our body - is the longest cranial nerve, stretching from the brainstem to various organs including the heart, lungs and digestive tract. It is responsible for regulating our parasympathetic nervous system, also known as the "rest and digest" system. It's counterpart is our sympathetic nervous system, which activates the "fight or flight" response in stressful situations. Think of it as a seesaw, with the vagus nerve representing the "brake" and the sympathetic nervous system being the "accelerator". When one is activated, the other is deactivated. This is important because we need both systems to maintain balance in our body. However, in today's fast-paced world where stress levels are constantly high, many of us spend more time on the "accelerator" and not enough on the "brake". This can lead to chronic stress, anxiety and burnout. - The vagus nerve's influence on mindset Research shows that the vagus nerve directly influences our mindset, stress response and emotional regulation. People with higher vagal tone - meaning their vagus nerve is functioning efficiently - tend to have better emotional regulation, lower stress levels and a more positive mindset overall. Conversely, those with lower vagal tone may struggle to stay calm and focused in high-pressure situations, leading to anxiety, panic attacks and difficulty controlling emotions. Studies have also shown that vagus nerve stimulation can improve symptoms of depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder by increasing levels of neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine, which are responsible for regulating mood and emotions. - The vagus nerve's influence on voice The vagus nerve also plays a critical role in voice production and modulation. This is because it innervates the larynx, or voice box, controlling the contraction and relaxation of the muscles responsible for voice pitch, volume, and tone. When stimulated, it can help to regulate the tension in these muscles and improve the quality of our voice. In high-stress situations, when our 'fight or flight' response is activated, our vocal folds can tense, causing the voice to become shaky or weak. This can make it more difficult to speak and project the voice. By activating the vagus nerve, we can counteract this response and speak with more ease, clarity, and confidence. "The vagus nerve, an unassuming journeyman of our physiology, finds itself at the grand intersection of the mind and voice. With its subtle influence, it crafts the symphony of our emotions, and in doing so, it shapes not just the rhythm of our hearts but the melody of our words." - Omar Bani Mustafa, Speech Language Pathologist Understanding and harnessing the power of the vagus nerve can, therefore, lead to improved emotional and vocal control, enabling us to maintain a clear, confident mindset and voice even in stressful situations. This is why some singers and performers use vagus nerve stimulation techniques, like those below, to prepare for performances or reduce stage fright. Ten simple ways to stimulate your vagus nerve, and calm your mind and voice. Here are ten simple yet effective practices to improve your vagal tone, and help you think and speak calmly, confidently and clearly in any setting. Incorporating these techniques into your daily routine may well help you access their benefits when you really need them in a high-pressure moment! 1. Increase your vagal tone through breathwork Simple breathing exercises can stimulate the vagus nerve, helping us to feel more relaxed and centered in our body. Deep belly breathing, extended exhales, alternate nostril breathing, box breathing (inhaling for 4 counts, holding for 4 counts, exhaling for 4 counts, and holding for 4 counts), 'Countdown To Calm', and my personal favourite, 'The Container', are all worth a try. 2. Use your voice to activate the vagus nerve Research shows that toning and vocal exercises can help to stimulate the nerve, enhancing its regulating effects on our nervous system. Experiment with humming, singing, toning the "Om" chant, and reading or speaking aloud poetry and positive affirmations ("You can do this") to warm up your voice and calm your body. 3. Make time for belly laughter Laughter has been found to stimulate the vagus nerve and improve our overall stress response. So maybe it's time to let yourself have a good belly laugh - not just for fun, but to release emotional and vocal tension. Perhaps set a goal for a daily dose of comedy, whether it's through watching stand-up shows, funny reels and memes, or socialising with friends who make you laugh. 4. Try cold exposure There's evidence that exposing ourselves to cold temperatures can stimulate the vagus nerve and increase its tone. This could mean taking a cold shower, going for a dip in the ocean or even splashing cold water on your face and wrists all of which will help activate the nerve and improve your mood. 5. Rhythmic and mindful movement boosts vagal tone Yoga, tai chi, dancing, rocking, swinging, repetitive exercises like rowing or cycling, and even brisk walking all have the remarkable ability to stimulate the vagus nerve. These activities harmonise our breathing and heart rate, calm our nervous system, and increase feelings of well-being and connectedness with the world around us. 6. Connect through community Strong relationships and a sense of community have been found to increase vagal tone and support overall well-being. Connecting with friends and loved ones, joining a local library, club or reading group, and doing things you love (eating, reading, cooking, sport, singing) with others will all give your vagus nerve a boost. 7. Reduce vagal braking through diet What we eat can also have an impact on our vagal tone. Consuming nutrient-rich foods such as leafy greens, omega-3 fatty acids and probiotics can nourish the vagus nerve and minimise stress responses and illness-inducing inflammation in the body. 8. Nature time increases vagal tone Spending time outdoors, grounding ourselves and connecting with the earth has been found to increase vagal tone and improve mental clarity and calm. So, next time you're feeling overwhelmed, take a break and go for a walk in nature. 9. Stimulate the vagus nerve through pet interaction Dogs and cats, in particular, have a calming effect on humans, reducing stress levels and boosting mood. This interaction triggers the release of oxytocin, a hormone that reduces stress and anxiety, and in turn stimulates the vagus nerve. 10. Massage therapy can stimulate the vagus nerve Massage stimulates the vagus nerve, promoting relaxation and other health benefits. Techniques focusing on the neck and base of the skull activate this nerve, leading to reduced stress, improved digestion, lower heart rate, and enhanced vocal control. Incorporating regular massages into your routine is a great way to boost your vagal tone and indulge in self-care. If you're already doing some of the things listed above, keep doing them in the knowledge they're helping you become a more calm, confident and effective communicator. If there's something on the list you're not doing, give it a try, and see what happens. Remember, consistency is key, so try and create a routine that suits your lifestyle. This is an ongoing journey, so be patient! So, to wrap things up ... The vagus nerve is a secret, little-known weapon in every professional's toolkit. It's an incredibly important part of our body's nervous system, with far-reaching effects on our mood, mindset, and even our voice. Whether you're looking to reduce stress, boost your emotional well-being, or improve your vocal and executive presence  stimulating the vagus nerve may be the key to unlocking a whole new world of possibilities. So if you're looking for ways to improve your health and well-being, consider giving your vagus nerve a little extra attention and see just how powerful this nerve can be. Your mind, body, voice, and audience will thank you! The Business Voice Coach #voicetips #businessvoice #businessvoicecoach #mindset #presentationskills If you're eager to help your team improve their spoken communication skills, why not book me to run a Make Your Mark event, Vocal & Executive Presence Workshop or Business Voice Masterclass for them?

By end October 2023, over 400 people at investment management firm Baillie Gifford had attended my 12-hour Make Your Mark with Susan Room® group-coaching programme. Piloted in 2019, and run for self-selecting cohorts of 12, the programme's popularity means places are booked as soon as they are released and waiting lists are not uncommon. We kicked off cohorts 36, 37, 38 and 39 in January 2024. In this article four Baillie Gifford Make Your Mark alumni reflect on how they’ve put their learnings into practice to achieve something new and make their own mark. With thanks to and in conversation with: Celeste Beresford, Neil Irving Colquhoun, Louise Murphy and Gill Pearce. Celeste Beresford has been working with the firm for over 13 years, first as Assistant Manager Business Improvement, then as a Global Service Support Manager. She participated in the Make Your Mark programme because she was looking to take that next step up in her career. Having completed the programme, she was promoted to Head of Global Service Support. The team has flourished under her leadership and allows her to use her strategic management, team building, people development, business analysis, business process improvement and project coordination skills to the full. Neil Irving Colquhoun has been with the firm for 16 years. He's an experienced programme owner with a demonstrated history of working in the investment management industry. Prior to doing Make Your Mark, he worked with the Investment Projects and Improvements team ensuring investors have the focus they need to invest. When Neil’s immediate boss stepped away from his role as a programme owner in early 2019, Neil was asked to step in. He admits that for the first six months he struggled to be seen at that more elevated level. He participated in the Make Your Mark programme that same year and credits the programme with helping him achieve that. He's since been promoted to Head of MAFI Investment Services. Louise Murphy worked predominately in the firm's IT systems department for 13 years before becoming a programme manager for one of it's major applications in 2019. She signed up for the Make Your Mark programme having seen an article on an internal communication platform from Baillie Gifford’s Director of Ops Transformation and Private Companies Chief of Staff, Angela Geddes, talking openly about her experiences of the programme and how it had benefited her. As someone doing a similar role, that article convinced Louise the programme would be pitched at the right level and could help her own development. Since then, she's been promoted to manage the building and move to the firm's new Edinburgh office. Gill Pearce started her career in the firm’s finance department in operational roles 15 years ago. Seven years in, she transferred into the investment department as a Project Manager. She continues to work there today, managing a variety of projects that develop the best systems solutions for investors. Gill participated in one of the early Make Your Mark programmes, not long after her transfer into the investment team. That was part of her reason for wanting to do the programme, to learn new things that would help her make a success of her new role. What most surprised you about Make Your Mark? Neil begins that it was the amount he benefited. “I love the programme’s ability to make its learning stick. It’s designed so you take away practical learning. I was able to reinforce and put that into practice quickly and it didn’t take long before people started noticing the changes I implemented.” It’s a surprise Louise shares. “It’s the first course I’ve ever really done that I’ve continually benefited from. I’ve been able to confidently use some of the tools and learnings in my day-to-day work. This programme’s left a lasting mark on me, as well as allowing me to make my mark.” What did you discover that’s proved particularly helpful? “For me everything I do is about the quality of my relationships,” says Celeste. “There’s a lot in this programme about how the relationships you build with people form. How you trust, how you allow people to treat you, how you empower others to evolve their role into something that’s not only good for them but good for their team.” That learning’s been invaluable to Celeste, not only for putting a framework in place to build and lead a large team, but for managing it, and giving others the freedom to thrive within it. Her team’s growth and size today are testament to success. It’s ability to shift your perceptions is also something Celeste believes this programme excels at. “There’s a quote that always resonates with me and I feel Make Your Mark really addresses it. It’s that: ‘We don’t see things the way they are, we see things the way we are.’ “That’s a powerful thing to think about,” continues Celeste. “Our perception of how we see ourselves and what we think other people see, could be very different and vice versa. Knowing that impacts how you develop yourself, interact with others, and build relationships. I think about it a lot, especially when I listen to others, and I strive to see the world through their eyes.” Discovering how deceptive perception can be is a learning also shared by Gill. “I’m much more aware of people’s situations and that how they come across might not be the reality,” she says. “I’ve found this insight particularly useful in the last year when everything’s been virtual, with things like body language much harder to read. I try and use that insight in my teams. I work hard not to make assumptions, to ensure that individuals are looked after and that they really have what they need to succeed.” What one thing are you now doing differently? For Gill it’s about being kinder to herself, having had a powerful and practical demonstration of the ‘inner critic’ at work. “It was quite an eye opener. I remember thinking I’d never allow anyone else to speak to me like this so why do I allow myself to do it to me with these inner thoughts.” For Celeste it’s helping dispel that outdated myth that you need to be the loudest, most flamboyant person in the room to have real presence. “The programme helps you step back and think about what presence you need to have and how to build it. It’s important to come across confidently, but that isn’t about talking all the time and having all the answers. It’s more about whether you are approachable and how you work to instil confidence in others even when you don’t know the answer.” For Louise it’s actively listening to drive greater understanding and secure positive outcomes from meetings. She explains: “It’s not just about what is said, it’s about what you think you’ve heard and challenging accordingly.” And for Neil it’s having the personal confidence to lead and be seen at a more senior level. “I went from a role, where I basically gave people what they needed, to stepping into a more strategic position. I tended to make jokes when nervous, and a senior colleague called me out on it. This role was a step-change, but over the course of my Make Your Mark year my personal confidence grew, improving my ability to speak and even have difficult conversations with the most senior people in the firm.” How is this programme helping you Make your Mark? Gill shares that she might have been guilty in the past of turning down things because she’d never done them before or didn’t know anything about it. “What the programme helped me realise was that’s the reason to do it! It’s helped me be less hard on myself. That if I don’t know something about a topic, to openly admit that but then be more willing to take it on and learn about it. Since Make Your Mark I’m just more willing to say okay I’ll give it a go.” That’s something Neil can absolutely relate to. A couple of months ago, Neil was a webinar panellist. The topic was something he describes himself as interested in, but not an expert in. That perhaps doesn’t sound remarkable but it’s exactly the sort of thing Neil says he would have passed on before participating in Make Your Mark. “I wouldn’t have had the confidence or the skills. I’ve been working through a lot of what I learned on Make Your Mark - about how to present yourself, how to talk, how to sit, all these little things that go way beyond your content.” Reflecting on this first panel experience, Neil says, “I wouldn’t say I felt comfortable doing it, but I had the confidence to be able to do it. My contribution was well received, and I’ve had a couple of offers since to be on other panels. I’m cognisant that I don’t want people to see me as a talking head, but I really feel now that if it is useful for Baillie Gifford or to our industry then I’d be happy to do it again.” And Neil’s experience is one Louise relates to. “I’ve had to increase the number of presentations I do and that’s not in my comfort zone at all.” Louise explains it’s not that she’s bad at doing presentations, she knows her subject and is always prepared, it’s just her nerves would get the better of her. “Having done Make Your Mark, which looks not only at what you say but how you say it, a fellow colleague commented on my presentation improvement. I wasn’t doing that nervous coughing. The ums and ahs had gone. I was projecting far more confidence. The fact someone noticed those unhelpful speech habits were gone was great. Everyone here wants to do their best and the fact this programme presented these tools to me, is going to help me do a better job for Baillie Gifford in the future.” And Baillie Gifford’s future is something that is at the forefront of Celeste’s mind. “I mentor people here and I’ve taken a lot of the concepts from this programme and fed them into my mentoring relationships. This learning is so transferable, it’s not something I’ve just used for my own personal benefit – I’ve definitely tried to share it with others as well.” What was the programme’s highlight for you? There’s general agreement among these Make Your Mark alumni that beyond the content, the cohort and resulting internal network it helps you build are real highlights. Gill was one of the early participants onto the programme three years ago. “A few people asked why I didn’t go on the women-only cohort. While I can see why that may be helpful for some, my thinking was that our working environment is mixed, so I was keen to do this learning in a group reflecting that. There was a wide range of people involved on my cohort and that was good for relationships and building my network.” It’s a benefit echoed by Celeste, “This programme puts everyone on a level playing field. It shows you we're all here, facing the same problems and we should be leaning on each other a little more to support ourselves in our roles. I built some strong relationships that have subsequently helped me in this role. Through Make Your Mark we share a common journey, it’s one we can all relate to and being able to continue to speak to those people has been helpful.” What’s your advice for a colleague looking to join the programme? “Open your mind to everything that’s put in front of you", is Louise’s advice. “There will be things you’ll be unsure about or don’t want to say or try. But just open your mind and go with it.” “Embrace everything that’s within it,” says Celeste. “Don’t only think about the content, also take the opportunity to work with different colleagues and find those relationships you can build while there.” “Commit to it,” is Neil’s advice. “You can’t turn up half-heartedly and then walk away – it’ll be a waste of your time. Be honest with yourself about why you want to do the programme in the first place. Ask yourself what it is about your career right now that makes you think Make Your Mark will be useful to you.” “Make Your Mark is useful for everyone, from new starters to the most experienced professionals,” concludes Gill. “But to get the most out of it you must be willing to be open. If you are ready to try new things and can be open to feedback, it’s a fantastic opportunity to expand your self-awareness and see yourself as others see you. I came away with a toolkit that I’ve been able to draw on, even in the most challenging situations. I’ve used the programme’s learnings to spot opportunities and can now adapt my communication techniques to help me change a situation to secure a better outcome. As long as you are ready to be open - I’d encourage every colleague to participate in Make Your Mark.” Celeste, Neil, Louise and Gill are four of near-on 400 amazing Baillie Gifford colleagues who have participated in Make Your Mark with Susan Room®. If you’d like to chat about how this programme can help your organisation, please get in touch. Make Your Mark with Susan Room® explores how you think, how you look, what you say and how you say it and is valuable to those at every career stage. Why not book me to run a Make Your Mark event, Vocal & Executive Presence Workshop or Business Voice Masterclass for your organisation or team?

I don't know about you, but as well as joy and celebration I find the holiday season often brings stress, anxiety and drama, both at home and at work. Planning festive gatherings and meeting end-of-year deadlines, not to mention navigating complex work and family dynamics, can inadvertently turn what should be a time of peace and goodwill into one almighty 'drama triangle'. Want to know how to avoid any dramas this year? Then read on... What is the Drama Triangle? Coined by psychologist Dr. Stephen Karpman, the Drama Triangle is a model that describes the dynamic between three roles which, when played out, create tension and negativity in any situation. Karpman's Drama Triangle is a psychological model that provides a framework for understanding the dynamics of toxic interactions. There are three roles in this triangle: the Persecutor, the Rescuer and the Victim. The Persecutor The Persecutor often appears as an oppressive force, using their power and position to control or dominate. They may not necessarily be malicious or malevolent, but their behaviour often results in discomfort or harm to others. The Persecutor firmly believes that their wants and needs are paramount, and they will not hesitate to push others aside to achieve their goals. They often have a 'win-lose' mentality, viewing situations as zero-sum games where their gain must come at someone else's loss. This lack of empathy and pursuit of self-interest can create a hostile environment that nourishes Drama Triangles. The Rescuer The Rescuer shows genuine concern for the Victim, but instead of empowering them to take responsibility for themselves, the Rescuer unintentionally assumes control, makes decisions on the Victim's behalf, and presumes to know what the Victim needs and wants. Rescuing behaviour frequently stems from the Rescuer's own feelings of insecurity and desire for validation and control. Although well-intentioned, it fosters the Victim's dependence on others to solve their problems on their behalf. The Victim The Victim, as the name suggests, feels trapped and unable to navigate life's challenges alone. They may actively seek or passively wait for a Rescuer, hoping someone else will solve their problems. This dynamic creates dependency and disempowerment, hindering resilience and self-control. The Victim may play the 'poor me' role, manipulating others for sympathy and attention. This addiction absolves them of responsibility for their actions and emotions. How it manifests in the holiday season During the holiday season, when stress levels and emotions are running high, the Drama Triangle can easily seem to pop up everywhere. For example, at work: 1. A manager (the Persecutor) sets an unattainable year-end deadline, creating immense pressure on team members (the Victims). They frantically strive to meet the manager's expectations, while a senior colleague (the Rescuer) intervenes to mediate and diffuse the tension. However, instead of alleviating the situation, the senior colleague inadvertently exacerbates it. 2. An employee (the Rescuer) steps in to complete end-of-year tasks for a consistently underperforming colleague (the Victim), perpetuating a cycle of dependency, and causing other team members to become uncooperative (Persecutors) because they feel the distribution of work is unfair. 3. At the office party, an overbearing colleague (the Persecutor) makes a disparaging comment about an introverted team member (the Victim), leading another coworker (the Rescuer) to divert the conversation, depriving the Victim of the opportunity to respond. At home: 1. At the dinner table, one person (the Persecutor) dominates the conversation, leaving others feeling unheard and frustrated. Meanwhile, another family member (the Victim) remains silent, feeling powerless. A third family member (the Rescuer) attempts to mediate but inadvertently takes over the conversation, silencing others. 2. A family member (the Rescuer) takes on all the holiday cooking to alleviate the rest of the family's stress (the Victims), only to be criticised by other relatives (the Persecutors) for controlling the menu and when and what everybody eats. 3. Grandparents (the Persecutors) insist on perfect holiday decorations and criticise the efforts of other family members (the Victims), prompting a well-meaning relative (the Rescuer) to constantly re-do the decorations to keep the peace. Breaking free from the Drama Triangle Drama Triangles can be unproductive and detrimental, but let's face it, we are all capable of engaging in persecutory, rescuing, and victim-like behaviours. Luckily, when we recognise our participation in the Drama Triangle and figure out our role in it, we can free ourselves from its harmful cycle. How? To avoid acting like a Persecutor, learn to recognize and manage your desire for control, power and validation. By shifting your perspective from 'win-lose' to 'win-win', you can foster collaboration and find solutions that benefit everyone. To minimise Rescuer tendencies, remember that true support comes from empowering others to take responsibility for their own actions and emotions. By setting boundaries and communicating openly, you can avoid falling into the trap of trying to fix everyone else's problems. And next time you feel like a Victim, remind yourself that you have the power to take control of your own life and make positive changes for yourself. By recognising your patterns and seeking help only when really needed, you can stop feeling dependent on others and rely on yourself much more. Top tips for avoiding dramas this holiday season Know your role in the drama triangle - are you the victim, persecutor or rescuer in the situation? Understand your triggers that lead to drama in family and professional relationships. Adopt a 'win-win' not a 'win-lose' mindset. Offer support when others are in need, but don’t try to fix or solve their issue. Balance between avoiding conflict and expressing your needs with confidence. What tips would you add to this list? Feel free to share in the comments below. Wishing you all a drama-free holiday season! The Business Voice Coach. Read more about Dr Stephen B. Karpman and the Drama Triangle. #dramafreeholidays #healthyrelationships #empowerment #selfreflection

Equal Pay Day, this year is celebrated on the 18th September - a day dedicated to raising awareness of the gender pay gap and encouraging employers in all industries to take concrete steps toward closing it. Back in 2019, I wrote an article to mark Equal Pay Day advising women on ‘how to say my pay’s not ok’ during their annual performance review. At the time, women were being paid 13% less than men and the debate on the gender pay gap was getting louder. (The gender pay gap refers to the difference between the average earnings of men and women). Now, four years on, the optimist in me hopes to see the gap narrowed but according to Forbes, ‘women in 2022 still earned 17% less than men on average’. It is clear that current efforts to close the gender pay gap are woefully inadequate and that things are not moving in the right direction. Gender pay gap reporting has helped to bring the issue to the forefront of public attention and whilst many countries have made significant progress in addressing the wage gap between men and women, there is still work to do - and it starts with practical action by both government and businesses. Bold, decisive action is needed not just to narrow the wage gap but the pension gap that means many women will also miss out on a comfortable retirement according to this article in the Financial Times. The Department for Work & Pensions currently estimates the gender pay gap in private pensions is at about 35 per cent. Interestingly the latest report on the Gender pay gap in the UK: 2022 from the ONS states that: Compared with lower-paid employees, higher earners experience a much larger difference in hourly pay between the sexes. The managers, directors and senior officials' occupation group has experienced the largest fall in gender pay gap since the pre-coronavirus pandemic April 2019 figure, especially for those aged 50 and over; this group has previously been identified as having a notable impact on the pay gap. Some organisations are clearly taking positive steps to narrow the gap in their senior ranks. However, it seems that paying women less for doing comparable work is still prevalent across most industries including highly skilled professions such as law and medicine. In the legal industry, men earn an average of 59% more than women. A Canadian study published in JAMA Surgery in October found that female surgeons in Ontario earned 24% less than their male peers, despite the province’s fee-for-service payment model. - Source: What's driving the gender pay gap in medicine? It’s also inexcusable in 2023 that we are now hearing more frequent reports from women in different sectors being sexually assaulted in the workplace. For example, 1 in 3 female surgeons claim to have been sexually assaulted. Another gross injustice especially given they are more likely than male surgeons to be assigned high risk patients and have equal or possibly better patient outcomes than male surgeons. - Source: The long road to gender inequity in surgery We must all work to narrow the gender pay gap The gender pay gap is a complex issue. It requires a concerted effort from all parties involved. Corporates should embrace pay transparency, offer flexible work options, address bias in hiring and promotion, develop and promote women, and take collective action to create a more equal workplace. However, I firmly believe that it is not just the responsibility of corporates to bridge the gender pay gap. Collective action is needed to bring about real change. Industry bodies, government and non-profit organisations should work together to promote gender equality. Corporates should collaborate with each other and their industry partners to share best practices and lessons learned. By working together, we can create an environment where equal pay for equal work becomes the norm. Developing and promoting women is key to bridging the gender pay gap. Female professionals should know their worth, ask for what they deserve, and seek to develop their skills and competencies. Corporates can help by providing gender-specific training and development programs specifically aimed at women, giving them the tools and confidence they need to raise the issue with their employer. Offering personal and professional development opportunities such as coaching and mentoring programs, personal development workshops, and leadership programs can help women progress in their careers. Ultimately the promotion of women to higher leadership positions will help to break the glass ceiling and improve pay equity. Equal pay for equal work As a professional woman having navigated the complexities of the corporate world throughout my career, I find it jarring that we are still grappling with this issue in 2023, despite the significant strides made in gender equality. The stark disparity in wages and pension contributions between men and women isn't a mere ethical issue; it poses a potent threat to our economic sustainability and social justice. It's essential for women to understand their value, to be bold in asking for what they rightfully deserve, and to continually seek opportunities to enhance their skills and competencies. I've personally seen the benefits that gender-specific initiatives can bring, through the delivery of my coaching programmes for women. I am looking forward to an Equal Pay Day when 'equal pay for equal work' becomes the rule rather than the exception. International Equal Pay Day, celebrated on 18 September, represents the longstanding efforts towards the achievement of equal pay for work of equal value. It further builds on the United Nations' commitment to human rights and against all forms of discrimination, including discrimination against women and girls. #equalpay #equality #womenempowerment

Every year on 6th September, National Read A Book Day celebrates the unique joy that comes from immersing ourselves in literature - an escape, an exploration, and an education all at once. As we celebrate this day, I want to share with you one of my favourite books - 'The Future of Time' by award-winning author, Helen Beedham. This work of brilliance is a journey into the intricacies of time and for me offers a welcome new perspective on the persistent problem of time management. The book is packed full of practical tools that can be applied across roles and industries. Helen positions time management as a strategic business issue and artfully argues for a more effective approach to work that promotes well-being and job satisfaction. Thoroughly researched, logically organized and readily accessible, it's an outstanding 'must-read'. The key message of the book is to be successful we must manage time more thoughtfully across teams and the whole organisation. The Future of Time is divided into three parts: Part 1 explores the problem with the way we treat time and the implications for business. Part 2 describes what good time management looks like, with examples from organisations doing it well. Part 3 shares how to diagnose your organisation's own time defects and make things better with practical tools for effecting change. The major obstacle here is change fatigue. Much of this section of the book is dedicated to how to successfully implement change through reworking time. Helen helpfully suggests that directly linking a project like this to a strategic business priority can help to get buy-in. For example, if the strategic priority is to grow the business by 10%, you can demonstrate how reworking time would help to achieve that. For me, The Future of Time's most interesting concepts are: And finally - the most useful appendix I have ever seen in a book! This is where you'll find all the tools and resources you need to rework time. I most loved the ‘Team Time Contract’, which sets out how a team will work together. I have to admit my initial reaction to this concept was ‘Who would make time to establish a contract like this?’ but her sample contract is actually very thought-provoking. It’s easy to see how a Time Team Contract could be transformative and it’s reminiscent of why I also spend time 'contracting' in coaching, by which I mean spend time upfront with coachees to agree what's going to happen and how we will work together. It’s a false economy not to do this if ultimately you want the best outcomes. I also recognised some other links to coaching in that coaches excel at holding the space and ‘time’ for their clients. Coaching can also dispel the myth that you need lots of time to achieve something worthwhile – a single 30 minute coaching session can change the course of your day, your week, and sometimes even your life. In summary I thoroughly enjoyed this book and would highly recommend it to anyone. I was therefore delighted to hear that The Future of Time: how ‘re-working’ time can help you boost productivity, diversity and wellbeing had been announced as the winner of the People, Culture & Management Book 2023 by The Business Book Awards earlier this year. The full list of The Business Book Awards 2023 winners here. The Business of Being Brilliant podcast Late last year, I had the privilege of being a guest on Helen's podcast where she talks to business leaders, academics, authors and workplace experts about how to change organisations for the better so that everyone can flourish. You can listen to our episode "Collaborating within boundaries" here.

Research suggests that despite feeling "considerably more connected" when talking with others, many individuals prefer to communicate via email or text because they fear the perceived "awkwardness" of making a phone call. After all, when you call someone, you relinquish full control over your message, and are likely to have to 'dance in the moment' (improvise). Yet effective phone communication skills are essential for numerous professional purposes, including conference calls, coaching colleagues, building relationships with customers, and broaching difficult topics and negotiations. In this post we'll explore ways you can leverage your voice and body language during phone calls, to convey your message clearly and leave a positive lasting impression. Preparing for high-stakes phone calls 1. Before you make or take an important call, prepare what you are going to say and how you'll handle questions and objections that might knock you off track. Knowing your topic will give you confidence as will structuring your message in a way that makes sense for the listener. Having key facts and figures at your fingertips will also boost your confidence and make your message more persuasive. Think too about how you will end the conversation. 2. Practice, in advance, not just what how you're going to say but how you're going to say it. Warming up your voice first will help you sound confident and clear from the moment you start speaking. Here are a few simple things you can do: 3. Having warmed up, record yourself delivering your message several times, each time varying the pitch, pace, volume and tone of your voice. Listen back, noticing which bits you think will land well, then weave those into a final recording. Listening to it several times before the real conversation takes place will help you embody, remember and deliver your message more effectively when the time comes. Vocal variety is key Employing a range of pitch, pace, volume, and tone during a phone conversation captivates listeners, fosters trust and rapport, and creates a more engaging, persuasive, and memorable dialogue. Here's a quick reminder of each of these four vocal elements: 1. Pitch Voice pitch is the 'highness' or 'lowness' of your voice, and can significantly impact the delivery and interpretation of your message. It's a powerful tool for conveying emotion and adding nuance to conversation. High pitch often signals excitement, anxiety, or surprise and can create an atmosphere of enthusiasm or urgency, compelling listeners to pay attention. In contrast, a lower pitch can convey calmness, seriousness, and certainty. Varying your pitch, as you would if you were reading a child a story, is especially helpful when speaking on the phone as it creates an emotional connection, which is harder to achieve if you're not in the room with someone. 2. Pace We tend to speak faster when we know what we're talking about and/or when passionate, excited or nervous. Speaking fast is fine, as long as words are pronounced crisply and clearly, so others can understand. For help with this, check out How to practice your English pronunciation like a movie star. If you have a strong accent or are conversing with someone whose first language differs from the one you're using, it's probably a good idea to slow down. This will make it easier for your listener/s to understand and digest what they're hearing, reducing the risk of misunderstandings and unintended interruptions. It will also give them time to formulate and jump in with questions. 3. Volume Your voice volume, and how you vary it, is a crucial part of your personal brand. Very quiet speech with little vocal energy can make it difficult for others to hear and understand you, and signal a lack of confidence. Speaking loudly can come across as aggressive or unprofessional and is also likely to raise your voice pitch (it's hard to speak loudly with a low pitch). Remember: volume is perceptual. You may think you're speaking loudly but if the person on the other end of the phone asks you to speak louder, don't take it personally. Adjust your volume and try matching the other caller's voice to create a balanced conversational dynamic. 4. Tone While pitch conveys emotion, tone of voice conveys our attitude to what we're saying, and can have a powerful effect on how our message is interpreted. Sometimes it's helpful if your tone is consistent with what you're feeling. For example, if you're excited about something but speaking in a flat monotone voice, people might wonder how excited you really are. Other times you may choose a tone that hides your emotions. For example, if you're feeling defensive but don't want to show it, you could use an inquiring tone instead. If you aim to sound professional, authoritative, friendly, courteous and warm most of the time, you'll likely build trust, rapport and respect more quickly with others. Be an active listener Listening is just as important as speaking when it comes to effective communication on the telephone. Paying attention to what others are saying, commenting and building on their remarks, and asking relevant questions can be hard, but doing these things will indicate genuine interest in their point of view. Active listening will also help you better understand and assess the other person's reaction to what you're saying, which is harder to do on the phone because you can't see their body language. Don't be afraid to take moments of silence or pauses in the conversation as an opportunity to really process what's being said and to let the other person speak next. By doing so, you may pick up important details or information that you would have otherwise missed. Body Language Even though the other person cannot see your body language during a telephone conversation, it can significantly impact the tone and effectiveness of your communication. Sitting upright and tall in a comfortable, confident posture, tummy and tension released, will allow you to breathe, and thus speak, more clearly and energetically. Smiling while talking, even though it can't be seen, will alter the tone of your voice (the pitch will rise) and may make the conversation lighter, and the connection more enjoyable. Gesturing, as you would in a face-to-face conversation, and walking around, will energise your voice, helping you communicate your thoughts more effectively. Remember, your physical demeanour can influence your vocal output, making body language a crucial aspect of effective telephone conversations. Honing the art of effective telephone conversations In essence, effective telephone communication includes being prepared, varying and modulating your voice, pronouncing words clearly, actively listening, and using your body to enhance and energise your voice. Combining these practical techniques can improve your telephone conversations, making them more effective, connecting and productive. If you're eager to help your team improve their spoken communication skills, why not book a Business Voice Masterclass or Vocal and Executive Presence workshop for them? Sources: Phone calls create stronger bonds than text-based communications https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2020/09/200911141713.htm

Breathing efficiently and effectively has numerous benefits - including reducing stress. It lowers the heart rate, oxygenates the brain and helps you stay present. If you’re feeling anxious because you’re about to jump onto an important call then I have more good news, breathing exercises like this also allow you to speak more credibly and confidently. I designed this breathing exercise for busy professionals looking for a way to relax, re-balance and re-focus regardless of where they are. I call it “The Container” because it starts with you visualising your torso as a container for your breath – it’s your fuel tank. To fill up your tank: 1. Put your hands, in a dome shape, just below your sternum, where your diaphragm is. 2. Release your belly and any other tension in your body. 3. Gently breathe in through your mouth - pushing and flattening your hands down towards your belly as you go. 4. Breathe out through your mouth raising your hands back up to the point just below your sternum. Then repeat for at least a minute. Closing your eyes during this exercise will help you switch off from external distractions and focus your mind on your body and breath. I hope this helps you, as it does me, feel calmer, more collected, and confident in tackling your day.

You are heading into an important meeting. You’ve done the pre-read, prepared your key messages and you’re confident your contribution can wow and win your participants over. Half an hour before the meeting starts, you glance at the names of those attending. Your finger stops at ‘Yoshihide’ and you panic. ‘Oh no,’ you think, ‘how on earth do I pronounce that?’ In today’s global environment our work often sees us interacting with those from different countries and cultures. I’ve picked ‘Yoshihide’ for illustrative purposes, but you could replace it with any that’s unfamiliar and the point’s the same - you never get a second chance to make a first impression. Pronouncing a colleague's name correctly is not only a common courtesy but also a crucial step in creating an inclusive workplace that values psychological safety and a sense of belonging. After all, a person’s name is an integral part of their identity and hearing it mispronounced can leave them feeling disrespected and wondering whether their contributions are valued. Unconvinced? Research suggests that having a ‘hard-to-pronounce’ name can negatively impact social emotional wellbeing and the ability to learn; your career progression; your chances of getting a job in Western countries; and your interview chances in France. Perhaps that’s why so many Black and Asian job applicants ‘whiten’ their CVs and half of Chinese students attending US universities adopt English names to ‘fit in’. So, how do you discover how to pronounce someone’s name well? The important thing is not to guess and so here I share some tips to help you get it right first time. N is for New. A new campaign by Race Equality Matters recommends adding the phonetic pronunciation to all your communication channels; emails, social media, name badges etc. LinkedIn also offers a newish tool enabling people to record and display the pronunciation of their name on their profile. If others often mispronounce your name, and you’ve yet to do so, here are the instructions for how you can add this audio feature to your profile: Record and Display Your Name Pronunciation on Your Profile | LinkedIn Help A is for Ask. Perhaps the person hasn’t activated the audio LinkedIn feature or added the phonetic pronunciation of their name. If this is the case, don’t be afraid to ask a mutual acquaintance. Once you have the correct pronunciation, you might want to record it into your smart phone, so you remember and can rehearse it. M is for Multilingual. If that fails, check out this multilingual audio pronunciation dictionary. It’s a crowd-sourced database so I can’t guarantee it is 100% accurate, but when I’ve used it, I’ve had good results. How To Pronounce: Online Multilingual Pronunciation Dictionary E is for Ears. If you are already in the room, find a way of getting the individual to say their name first so you can hear it. For example, if someone’s wearing a name badge you can try something like: ‘Oh yours looks like a lovely name and I want to say it well, could you pronounce it for me?’ Or when I’m running a workshop and all I have is a register of names in front of me, I will sometimes write the name up I’m struggling with and say something like: ‘This is such an interesting name and it’s not one I’ve come across before – would you be kind enough to tell me how you say it?’ Shakespeare famously wrote ‘what’s in a name?’ And the answer is, of course, everything – our identity, the success of our interactions and a path towards better inclusion. Susan Room is an International Coaching Federation (ICF) Professional Certified Coach (PCC) and professional voice coach, one of the rare few qualified to provide both types of coaching. Her Make Your Mark group coaching programme explores how you think, how you look, what you say and how you say it and enables people to feel, look and sound confident – securing successful outcomes. #DiversityInclusion #leadership Research and further reading: Teachers, please learn our names!: racial microagressions and the K-12 classroom By Rita Kohli & Daniel G.Solórzano Do large employers treat racial minorities more fairly? Research by the University of Toronto “I Have Two Names, Xian and Alex”: Psychological Correlates of Adopting Anglo Names By Xian Zhao and Monica Biernat - University of Kansas

Are you looking to improve your own and others’ communication skills in the workplace? Do you want to sound more confident and authoritative and help those around you do the same? If so, then business voice coaching might be just what you need. In this quick guide, I explain what business voice coaching is, why it matters, what a top business voice coach does, what sets them apart from other voice coaches, the benefits of working with one, and how to choose the right one for you. What is business voice coaching? “Business voice coaching develops people’s personal, professional and vocal potential, equipping them to communicate more effectively on- and off-line, in any setting. It involves work on mindset, body language, speech and voice, and can be life-changing”. – Susan Room Why does it matter? Whether conversing with colleagues, clients or investors; pitching or presenting your ideas and recommendations; leading town halls or team meetings; interviewing for a new role or promotion; or inspiring others to trust and follow your lead; what you say and how you say it can make all the difference. What does a top business voice coach do? A top business voice coach will work with you on the four key pillars of communication: mindset, body language, speech and voice. I do this using my Make Your Mark Coaching Model, and I do it in that order because, for me, how you think (mindset) affects how you look (body language) what you say (speech) and how you say it (voice). Think about it. 1. Mindset: the voice leaks information. Whatever you’re feeling - tired, hungry, stressed, anxious, irritated or something else - people will hear those feelings in your voice. That’s why building self-belief and a confident, clear mindset, is, in my view, the fundamental starting point for anyone wanting to work on their voice. 2. Body language​: the same goes for the way you show up physically in a space. Your posture, breathing, eye contact and hand gestures say a lot about you and how you’re feeling. If you believe in yourself, you’re far more likely to convey executive presence, make a positive first impression, and improve your personal and professional outcomes than if you doubt yourself. 3. Speech: if you’re mentally and physically confident, the words you utter will be too. You’ll speak more concisely, openly and authoritatively and ask more and better questions, maximising your contribution and impact in the process. You’ll also know when and how to voice your opinions and say no, minimising the risk and consequences of overwhelm. 4. Voice: if the three pillars above are in place and you are healthy, there is a good chance your voice will sound confident, audible and clear. With that as a baseline, you can then go on to explore how your voice works and how you can use it strategically and intentionally to make your mark, voice your values and so much more. What sets a top business voice coach apart from other voice coaches? Few and far between, with a rare combination of experience and credentials, top business voice coaches: Have more than 10 years’ senior leadership experience Are certified by one of the world’s leading coaching organisations (ICF, EMCC, Association for Coaching, ECA and EASC) Hold a post-graduate degree in voice studies from a globally renowned conservatoire (like the Royal Central School of Speech and Drama where I studied) Abide by a recognised code of conduct and uphold the highest ethical standards Coach the four interrelated pillars of effective communication: mindset, body language, speech and voice Are highly skilled at making world-class actor voice training techniques accessible and appealing to time-poor business people Most other voice coaches fall into one or more of the following categories: Those who offer communication and presentation skills coaching (also known as voice trainers, speaking voice coaches or speech coaches) Those who help non-native speakers soften their English accent and actors speak in different accents (known as accent and/or dialect coaches) Those who help actors, voiceover artists, podcasters, presenters and singers perfect their delivery (often known as vocal coaches) The benefits of working with a top business voice coach By working with a top business voice coach, you and your people will develop not only your vocal and communication abilities, but also other uniquely human skills which, according to world-leading influencer Bernard Marr, are increasingly in demand as technology puts more and more jobs at risk. These include: Managing time effectively Listening openly with empathy Bringing out the best in people Thinking critically and creatively Communicating ideas and opinions Building relationships and networks Controlling and expressing emotions Collaborating effectively in a hybrid world Being open-minded, curious and willing to learn In addition, individuals will gain Better verbal skills Increased confidence Greater self-awareness Improved executive presence More vocal variety and impact Teams will experience More visibility Wider opportunities Improved team spirit Greater trust and rapport Enhanced collaboration and creativity And organisations will benefit from Higher productivity More diversity and inclusivity Increased employee engagement A more open, authentic workplace Better individual and collective wellbeing Choosing a business voice coach Here are some things to consider: Experience: Look for someone who has credible, hands-on business experience (it doesn’t have to be in your industry) Credentials: Check their credentials and certifications Coaching style: Make sure their coaching style aligns with your learning style Reviews: Read reviews from past clients to get an idea of their experience working with the coach Is business voice coaching worth the investment? Absolutely. Working with a business voice coach can help you develop the strong interpersonal communication skills that are increasingly important as technology continues to challenge traditional work roles, improving your personal and professional outcomes. If you are ready to take your communication skills to the next level and unlock your full vocal potential, check out my Workshops, Keynote, 1-2-1 Coaching Solutions and Masterclass! Got a question about business voice coaching and how it can help you or your organisation?

5 things great TED speakers secretly share about giving a top talk Ever wondered why we find certain speakers so engaging? Want to better understand what they’re doing with their voice so you can do likewise? Then this article is for you. In this article I examine five fantastic TED talks to pinpoint how each speaker uses a different vocal element to best effect. There are five elements to your voice and what helps me remember them is this acronym SPILT: That's Speed, Pitch, Intonation, Loudness and Tone. So when preparing to give a talk, and long before any words are ‘SPILT’ from your lips, it’s worth thinking about these five things and how they can be used to maximise your vocal and personal impact: Speed One of the best examples I’ve ever seen that demonstrates speed of speech is Tom Nash’s ‘The perks of being a pirate’. This is a poignant talk from beginning to end. It’s hard not to fall in love with Tom as a speaker because his resilience is both extraordinary and inspiring. But it’s the way he enfolds his messages in humour and his brilliant use of comic timing that make him and what he says so compelling. Now humour isn’t for everyone (indeed employing it can go horribly wrong), so I’m not suggesting you need use it. But, what you can do, and what Tom is secretly sharing in this talk, is how to vary pace and use pause to great effect. I’d invite you to listen between 05.42 and 06.19. In these 37 short seconds you’ll hear a beautiful illustration of varying pace and a brilliantly executed use of pause. Notice how he speeds up when cracking jokes and slows down when delivering significant points? This helps him capture attention and powerfully connect with his audience. Pitch Credible research suggests that lower pitched voices convey greater competence and leadership capability than higher ones. What’s interesting though is that pitch is entirely perceptual so what’s pleasing to your ear may be unpleasant to mine. My perception of this next speaker’s average pitch is that it’s quite low for a woman, but I’ve selected Amanda Palmer and her talk ‘The art of asking’ not because her pitch is low but for the elegant way she uses pitch to convey emotion. I’d like to draw your attention to how she does that between 08:46 and 09.45. Then listen to the way she says the word ‘economists’ at 02:35 – it’s an excellent example of using pitch to stress and draw attention to a word. If you want to find your own natural, lower pitch then Amanda also shares a secret to help you do it before she utters a word. Watch how she prepares herself to speak. She takes her time, owns her space, then takes a deep breath. As a singer, Amanda is trained in breath control, but anyone can learn techniques to replicate what she’s doing here – grounding herself and breathing deeply to release tension from her body. Tension is unwelcome as a singer or speaker because it causes your larynx (voice box) to rise and, with it, your pitch. Intonation This vocal element is all about the melody of speech – how your voice rises and falls. A lovely illustration can be heard in Özlem Cekic’s ‘Why I have coffee with people who send me hate mail. Just listen between 14.06 and 15:12 to hear Özlem’s falling intonation at the end of her sentences. Notice how that helps her convey certainty and authority? And when sharing her stories, what Özlem is secretly showing here is how you can vary intonation to bring a story to life, like you might do to hold the attention of a child you are reading to. Now Özlem is Turkish/Danish and presenting in English, so this musicality in her voice is particularly impressive. English intonation is one of the hardest things to master for many non-native speakers. If you’re struggling with that now, know that you are not alone and that there are ways to learn. Loudness It can be hard to adjust the volume of your speech but if you want to know why it’s worth persevering, then look no further than the late Rita Pierson who in 2013 gave this amazing talk: ‘Every kid needs a champion’. For me, her volume mirrors her conviction and confidence, which captivates her audience. She also brilliantly contrasts her volume, with loudness juxtaposed with poignant moments of quietness. What Rita also shows us is fabulous vocal energy – meaning she puts effort into every word she utters. This energetic commitment throughout conveys how much she cares about her words and her message and it’s what makes her and her call to action so utterly compelling. My favourite sentence comes in at 04:16, but pick it up at 3:57 and listen until 4:21 to really get the full impact of how she uses volume to its fullest effect. Tone Like pitch, tone conveys our attitude to our words and to others. For example, our tone might be warm, abrupt, sarcastic or angry. One of the most beautiful illustrations of tone (as well as many other things) is George Monbiot’s: ‘For more wonder rewild the world’. George is a journalist so his fantastic word choices paint vivid pictures in the minds of his audience. Within a single sentence he has an ability to transport you into his world. ‘I found myself scratching at the walls of life, as if trying to find a way out into a wider space beyond,’ is just one example. But it’s the way he marries his word choices with his tone choices that is so impressive. This powerful alignment between what he says and how he says it leaves no room for doubt about his passion and commitment. Indeed, he does it so well that in his book The official TED guide to public speaking, Chris Anderson, Head of TED, gives George’s talk special mention. Anderson says: ‘Almost every word he [George] utters is crafted with a different layer of tone and meaning behind it’. So there you have it, the five elements of voice and what you can learn from other great speakers to maximise your vocal and personal impact. I hope you’re taking away something to put into practice and the reminder that, as these speakers secretly demonstrate, presenting is never only about what you say it’s also hugely about how you say it. #voicetips #businessvoicecoach If you're eager to improve your spoken communication skills, why not book me to run a Make Your Mark event, Vocal & Executive Presence Workshop or Business Voice Masterclass for your team?