Volume

Volume is one of the simpler concepts that can go a long way in making your presentation better.

1. Volume is how loud a speaker’s voice is during a presentation

2. Volume is one of the most vital elements of any speech. If your voice does not reach the audience, it becomes much harder for your content to resonate with the audience

3. Projecting your voice demonstrates confidence, which is a crucial element of presenting a good speech.

Tips for Using Effective Volume

1. Project your Voice

Make sure you are speaking loud enough so the person farthest in the back can clearly hear what you say. Try visualizing your voice as a physical presence that you are pushing to the back of the room.

2. Have Proper Posture

Standing or sitting with your shoulders back and head and chin tilted toward your audience will allow you to project your voice farther.

3. Take Consistent, Deep Breaths

When we're nervous, we often take short, shallow breaths that don't allow us to fully oxygenate our voice. Controlling your breathing and taking intentional, deep breaths allows us to put more power into our volume and project our voice consistently.

4. Practice Proper Distance

Make sure your volume is sufficient enough to minimize the distance between you and the audience. This is especially true if you tend to speak quietly or have a naturally quiet voice.

5. Vocal Variety

Speaking with a proper volume is important but also make sure you are also varying your volume. Speaking at different volumes throughout your presentation is an effective way to highlight key points. Speaking at a lower volume draws your audience in. Alternatively, a louder volume will emphasis key points.

6. Start Strong

Begin your speech with a commanding volume. This is an effective way to capture the audience attention right away. Be careful of starting too loud as this can startle your listeners.

7. Finish Strong

Emphasize your conclusion by using a commanding volume. Speak loudly, clearly, and with an appropriate pace to bring a sense of closure to your speech. Again, make sure your volume is strong without being overpowering.

8. Practice makes Perfect

Practice in the Communication Center, at home, or in a classroom with your roommates, friends, family, or anyone who will listen. Practice in a variety of room sizes with an audience member sitting at the back of the room. Have your audience member make note of your vocal variety and if they can hear you throughout the whole presentation.