A Soft Voice

We all have our way of approaching our daily deeds. When it comes to speaking, some are loud and boisterous, while others are quiet and calming. I am not encouraging us to ignore our standard patterns in talking with others. I am saying there is a good thought in looking at different methods of discussion with people. Some ways of speaking may be better or worse, depending on the situation.

If the house is on fire, a loud voice that says everybody out of the house now is probably the best mode of the moment. When somebody is about to step on a snake, that same tone screaming watch out works well also. Not every situation needs to have a loud, overbearing voice, though.

If we are giving people technical information, the last thing we want to do is get them upset by being loud and rough with them. Loud and threatening voices cause us to be nervous. In an agitated state, we are less likely to get all the instructions correctly. Quite often, a quiet voice or at least a calm voice would be much better in sharing information.

When we catch someone doing something wrong, a quiet voice is more effective because it is unexpected. Speaking in a soft voice causes the rule-breaker to lean in and listen more intently. It is a great technique and one that will not soon be forgotten by the person perpetrating the misdeeds. As they lean in, you know that you have their full and undivided attention.

When approaching someone with a calming voice, it allows them to relax a little. It gives everyone some time to think. Maybe someone has a question or two. A loud, boisterous exchange from a superior, mentor, or peer may cause them to fear to ask.  Fear to ask a question can easily lead to confusion due to misunderstanding. The best thing to do is to keep everyone calm and focused on whatever they have before them.

Of course, this is just one mean old master Sargent’s Thought. To know for sure, try this technique for yourself.

Thank you for being with me today. I hope to be with you again tomorrow.

Author: Mike Balof

A retired Air Force Master Sergeant, Mike used to lay in bed at night and worry about what would happen if his plant closed or found himself without a job. One day his plant closed. Rather than panic and hysteria (OK, maybe a little) Mike found himself carried away on the adventure of his life. Mike started with the best job he ever had working at Home Depot. He spent 8 years working with job seekers at a local workforce center, helping them to find employment. He then started his own company developing courses, writing books and urging others to follow their own paths into the future. Mike holds a Master of Arts in Adult Education and Training and a Bachelor of Business Management, earned through the University of Phoenix and an AAS degree in Electronics Systems Technology from the Community College of the Air Force. Mike is a member of the Delta Mu Delta Business Honor Society. View all posts by Mike Balof