As Maya Angelou wisely noted, “I've learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” (my emphasis).

It’s the HOW part of things we’re talking about today. So, let’s dive into the magical world of paralanguage and discover how you can make your message truly unforgettable.

1. Pitch

Just because you have serious things to talk about doesn’t mean your voice needs to be down in the gutter. Get into some of your higher pitches to create variety and tantalize your listeners’ ears. Every so often, try popping way up into your soprano voice for a few words to really mix things up and to express inquiry or snarkiness.

2. Pace

Pacing is the rhythm of your speech. Speak too fast, and you might leave your audience in the dust; too slow, and you risk putting them to sleep. Mix it up to keep your audience on their toes. When mentioning names, companies, or complex terms, slow it down to let the information sink in.

3. Melody

Your voice has its own melody, whether you realize it or not. Use ascending melodies to build energy and keep control of the conversation. When you need to deliver definitive information or pass the baton, a descending melody will serve you well. Your vocal melody can guide your listener’s emotional journey.

4. Volume

Volume is your tool for emphasis. Whisper to create intimacy and lean in for a dramatic effect, or raise your voice to command attention and convey urgency. Don’t be afraid to play with louds and softs to highlight key points and keep your audience engaged.

5. Tone

Tone is the emotional color of your voice. It’s like the soundtrack to your words. A bright and light tone conveys happiness and confidence, while a darker tone can communicate seriousness, sadness or compassion. Tone carries emotion, so keep it vibrant to engage your listeners.

Bonus: Non-Word Expressions

Sometimes, it’s not the words but the sounds that make the magic happen. Yawning, sighing, and laughing are powerful tools that can add layers of meaning to your message. These non-word expressions can punctuate your speech and make your message resonate on a deeper level.

Share Your Thoughts

Now that you’ve got the lowdown on making your message memorable, it’s time to put it into practice. COMMENT below to let me know which paralanguage element you’ll try this week.

Ready to make your words unforgettable? Start exploring these elements today and watch your messages come to life!

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@fostervoicestudio - originally post titled “Stop Your HOW from Ruining Your WHAT.”