What makes a great speaker? In order to project confidence and professionalism, how you say something is often more important than what you actually say. One of the most effective ways to make your speech more dynamic and memorable is harnessing the power of the pause. Speaking too quickly is a common problem for many professionals. Everyone is in such a rush these days, and this often spills over into speech habits, with people getting their message out as quickly as possible, and running their words into one another. Unfortunately, this has two negative effects. First, it makes your speech much more difficult to understand. Second, it causes the speaker to lose the vocal variety that makes speech powerful, dynamic, and interesting. Take a look below at two ways inserting a well-timed pause can take your communication to the next level:
1) Pause for clarity: Speaking too quickly can make your speech difficult to understand and increases the likelihood of your listener missing key information. This is particularly problematic when either you or your listener is a non-native speaker of English. In order to make sure your message is fully understood, pause when providing important information. For example, pause between your first and last name and between each of the words in your company name when introducing yourself. Also, insert a couple of pauses when giving your telephone number; not only does this make it easy to understand, but it naturally “chunks” the information, making it easier to remember. Practice saying your number with the pause. For example, my number is 212 (pause) 308 (pause) 7725. Practice daily and it will become a natural way of speaking.
2) Pause for emphasis: Pausing is also an excellent way to highlight an important point and make sure your listener is fully absorbing your message. Bookend a critical piece of information with a one-second pause before and after. Pausing immediately before prepares your listener and allows them to focus. Pausing immediately after allows your listener to absorb your message, and makes it more likely they’ll remember the information later on. And, as an added bonus, the pause will give you the time to plan what you will say next.
If you’re ready to take your speech to the next level with the power of the pause, contact us to learn more about Corporate Speech Solutions’ Strategic Marking System™, our method that helps you decide where to pause and for how long, to make your presentations and personal communication as effective as possible. Email us at info@corporatespeechsolutions.com to receive our complimentary copy of “The Power of The Pause.”
Want to learn more? Check out the video below!
Do you want to take your communication to the next level? Give us a call and see how Corporate Speech Solutions can improve your professional life! Call us at 212-308-7725 or send us an e-mail at info@corporatespeechsolutions.com to learn more. I’d be more than happy to answer any questions you might have!
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