This document provides guidance on how to develop an authentic speaking voice. It discusses key elements to focus on such as the larynx, inner and outer voice, register, timbre, prosody, pace, silence, pitch and volume. Specific exercises are recommended to strengthen the larynx and explore different registers. The importance of posture, eye contact, gestures and body language to project confidence is also covered. Regular practice, setting goals, and getting feedback are advised to cultivate an authentic voice.

1. How To Find Your
Authentic Voice
Become a confident and authentic public speaker by mastering the
following essential elements: larynx, inner and outer voice, register, timbre,
prosody, pace, silence, pitch, and volume.
by Renata Wasylów
RW

2. Your Larynx: The Key to a Resonant
Voice
The Anatomy of
Your Larynx
Your larynx houses your
vocal cords and controls
the pitch and volume of
your voice.
Common Vocal
Problems
Straining your voice,
speaking too loudly or
softly, and mumbling can all
be corrected by improving
your understanding of your
larynx.
Exercises to
Strengthen Your
Larynx
Practice humming to build a
strong foundation for
speaking and singing.

3. The Larynx: Understanding Your
Voice Box
The larynx, commonly known as the voice box, is a
key part of the respiratory system and plays an
important role in speech and singing.
The larynx houses the vocal cords, which vibrate
to produce sound.

4. Body Pose Confidence: How to
Stand, Sit, and Move with Poise
Confident body language can help you feel more
confident and in control. .
By practicing good posture, making eye contact,
and using open gestures, you can project
confidence and authority.

5. Exploring Your Inner and Outer
Voice
Connecting with Your
Inner Voice
Meditation, mindfulness, sport,
dance, singing practices can
help you tune into your inner
voice and increase your self-
awareness.
Developing Your
Outer Voice
Practice speaking in front of a
mirror or recording yourself to
become more comfortable with
projecting your voice and
staying engaged with your
audience.
Joining a Choir or
Public Speaking Group
Surround yourself with others on
the same journey by joining a
choir or a public speaking group
and practice together.

6. Learning About Registers and
Timbre
1
Chest Voice
The use of your chest muscles produces a
deeper, richer sound. It's often used in speech
and singing.
2
Head Voice
The use of your head or nasal cavity
produces a lighter, higher sound. It's often
used in opera and musical theater.
3
Timbre
Your unique timbre is a combination of your
voice's tone, texture, and color. It's what
makes your voice distinct.

7. Paying Attention to
Prosody and Pace
1 Prosody
Prosody refers to the
patterns of stress and
intonation in speech. Pay
attention to how you
emphasize certain words
and phrases.
2 Pace
The pace of your speech can
have a powerful impact on
your audience. Practice
speaking at different speeds
to see what feels most
natural.
3 Pausing for Effect
Pausing can create dramatic effect and help your audience stay
engaged. Use pausing intentionally to emphasize key points or to
let your audience digest information.

8. The Power of Silence in Your
Communication
Creating
Connection
Using silence can give your
audience time to reflect and
process what you're saying.
Showing
Confidence
Using silence intentionally
also demonstrates that
you're confident in your
message, and that you're in
control of the room.
Eliminating Fillers
Paying attention to use of
fillers like "um" and "uh" and
replacing them with a well-
placed pause can make
your speech sound more
polished and professional.

9. Finding Your Pitch and Volume
Pitch and Intonation
Your pitch and intonation can
convey meaning beyond the
words you're speaking. Practice
varying your pitch and tone to
emphasize different meanings.
Using Volume
Effectively
Your volume can also impact
how your message is received.
Playing with volume levels can
create a sense of drama and
keep your audience engaged.
Light and Shade in
Your Voice
By playing with your volume
levels, pitch, tone, and inflection,
you can create light and shade
in your voice and keep your
audience interested and
engaged.

10. Margaret Thatcher
UK Prime Minister

11. Practicing to Develop Your Authentic
Voice
1 Setting Realistic Goals
Set goals for yourself that align with your vision of what an authentic voice means to
you. Keep in mind that this is a journey, not a destination.
2 Regular Practice Sessions
Schedule regular practice sessions where you can focus on specific elements of your
voice, such as pitch, volume, or pauses.
3 Receiving Feedback
Ask trusted friends or colleagues for feedback on your speaking or singing voice. Use
their constructive criticism to improve and grow.