How Do You Use Your Voice?
ByHave you ever heard of the ‘And then some’ principle? Are there people where you work who say, “Don’t do too much. Just do what you get paid for and no more”?
When I was in college, I worked part time: on the railroad, in a warehouse, in a brewery, and also for a fruit and produce company. Since all the employees knew I was a short term worker, I was frequently told not to work too hard because they would still be there after I left. They were concerned that they may be expected to work harder. Yet most of the workers wanted and needed more money to satisfy their need for a comfortable lifestyle. Many workers also wanted promotions as well.
The ‘And then some’ principle says that you do what you are paid to do ‘and then some.’
The next time you call your favorite store, notice the tone of voice of the person who answers the phone. Observe how long it takes you to get an answer or solution to your question or concern. Hear the words the person uses to communicate with you. Listen for courtesy, concern, and enthusiasm! That’s the ‘And then some’ principle.
Focus on your telephone skills. If someone were evaluating your telephone competence, would they recommend you for a raise or a promotion? Your voice has the power to turn people on or turn them off. Basically you have three voices. You can use a soft voice, your normal voice, or a command voice. Each is appropriate based on the circumstances.
When you listen to a speaker, watch television, or go to a movie, observe the power of a voice. How does it create an impact on you? Do you want to listen longer or do you want to turn them off?
Recall the voices from your past. Whose do you remember? What voices helped to make you feel comfortable? How come? Were there voices that felt uncomfortable? Do you still have a dislike of certain voice tones? Do these voices remind you of anyone or anything? How does this affect your relationships? Have you ever heard the ‘And then some’ principle in a voice? It may have been someone using your name or giving you an affirmation. It could be the way someone asks you a question. Did they sound interested in what you are saying? Did they have an attitude of service?
Decide now to develop your voice to create a climate of acceptance. Refuse to yell or scream at anyone. Use your voice appropriately based on the situation. Soften your voice whenever anyone is upset or angry. Develop the many ranges of your normal voice so people identify the ‘And Then some’ principle.
For the next week invest in improving your voice and then watch what happens!
Soften your voice and spread the word about McGrane Global Centers.
