A Very Christmas-y Cure to Monotone

One of the most common questions I get from my clients is:

How do I break the habit of speaking in monotone?

I can be presenting on the most interesting subject in the world, but when I start to speak in my boring voice, I see everyone’s eyes glaze over. 

When I try to add more vocal variety, I feel weird and fake. HELP!

Do you relate to this? 

Do you fear that your vocal style is that of Ben Stein in Ferris Bueller’s Day Off?

Bueller? Bueller?

Never fear! I’ve got a yuletide cure for monotone coming your way!

Let’s break this down for a second:

What is “monotone”? 

Monotone describes a continuing sound, especially of a person's voice, that is unchanging in pitch and without intonation.

So, what’s the cure for monotone? 

Adding variation in pitch and intonation! 

See, wasn’t that easy?!

I kid, I kid!

Kind of…

See, here’s the problem: 

We know the cure to monotone is adding variation to pitch and intonation, we just feel super weird and unnatural when we do it.

And that’s because most adults only use about 10% of their vocal range on a daily basis. 

In the boardroom, monotone may be boring, but it also feels safe. 

Most of us would prefer to have our peers tune us out than think we’re over-the-top.

Which is where this holiday-themed tip comes in: 

When you’re trying to improve your vocal expressiveness, don’t practice with adults. Practice with kids. 

This holiday, grab a niece or nephew and a wintery classic! A few great options include:​ ​

• The Night Before Christmas

• How the Grinch Stole Christmas

• Meet the Latkes

• The Snowy Day

You will be AMAZED how natural it feels to add vocal variety when reading these books. In fact, children demand it! 

Your Grinch better be a growly bass, otherwise you’ll hear cries of “Do the voice! Do the voice!”

And I dare you to read “Not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse” and not drop down into a suspenseful whisper. 

Children expect expressive storytelling. If you’re looking to break your monotone habit, they will be your best coaches. 

Sara Glancy is an NYC-based actor and public speaking coach and the founder of Speak Masterfully, a service that helps professionals take the stage with less fear and more fun! 

Want to nail your next presentation?!  

Apply this basic outline to any speaking engagement to feel twice as prepared in half the time! 

Download Your Free Copy of "Mesmerize, Don't Memorize" here! "