Speaking Effective American English
On job interviews when first conversing with an individual and when addressing small orlarge groups, the first few seconds are critical in setting the tone for how you'll be perceived. If she has an annoying regional accent, uses incorrect grammar, has a limited vocabulary, and if she has an irritatingly sharp piercing voice, sounds whiny or bossy or doesn't articulate her words clearly, it' s an immediate turn-off. This isn't someone who you would hire or proudly introduce to your friends and business associates. This doesn't mean that everyone should try to sound like a professional actor or broadcaster. All of us have qualities unique to our own way of speaking, our individual voiceprintas distinctive as our fingerprints. Our voice is very personal and an important part of our identity. Some natural characteristics of our voice may be very appealing. The idea is to take the voice with which you've been gifted and give it the very best sound that you can. With the right type of practice, by paying attention to the quality of your voice and by knowing how to properly express yourself,you' II almost immediately improve your opportunities in job interviews, social situations, in selling, and in running a meeting or addressing groups of people. Let' s say it again, it all begins with the instrument, your voice. If its sound and quality is flawed and needs improvement, that' s where you start. That' s what everyone hears whether in casual conversation or in making a major speech to a large audience. Pure vowel sounds, articulation, proper breathing, expressive speaking patterns, a pleasing vocal range, naturalness, all these will make you get twice the result with half the effort.