In today’s busy world, strong communication skills are more important than ever. I recently spoke with Julian Treasure, an expert in sound and communication, who shared his insights on speaking and listening with purpose. Julian’s experience as a renowned speaker and sound expert offers practical lessons for anyone looking to communicate better.
Meet Julian Treasure
Julian is widely known for his powerful TED Talks, which have over 150 million views — and one is the sixth most-viewed of all time! His focus is both on speaking well and on listening effectively. As he says, “You always speak into a listening.” In other words, great communication isn’t just about talking; it’s about understanding who’s listening, too.
Listening with Humility
Julian believes humility is essential for good listening. When we approach conversations with an open mind and a desire to learn, we connect better with others. And, just like speaking, listening is a skill we can all develop.
“The moment you think you’ve cracked it … that’s a dangerous moment.” – Julian Treasure
Essential Tools for Effective Speaking
Julian shared his “vocal toolbox,” a set of simple but powerful techniques for communicating well:
1. Breath Control
Your voice is powered by your breath. Practising deep breathing can strengthen your voice and improve control.
2. Posture
Good posture helps your vocal cords work efficiently. Imagine a string pulling you up from the top of your head for a balanced stance.
3. Vocal Tone
Your tone impacts how others receive your message. Experiment with different tones to find a natural, confident sound.
4. Using Silence
Pauses add impact and let your audience absorb what you’re saying. Silence is a powerful tool.
5. Embracing Nerves
Julian views nerves as a sign of energy and excitement. He suggests using the “BESS” method — Breathe, Expand awareness, Stance, Smile — to calm yourself before speaking.
Recommended Books on Sound, Listening and Communication
Julian also shared a few book recommendations on sound and listening:
* The Mysticism of Sound and Music by Hazrat Inayat Khan
* The Great Animal Orchestra by Bernie Krause
* Nada Brahma: The World is Sound by Joachim E. Berendt
* In Pursuit of Silence by George Prochnik
* A Book of Silence by Sarah Maitland
* TED Talks: The Official TED Guide to Public Speaking by Chris Anderson
The Power of Communication
Julian’s advice highlights the importance of both speaking and listening. Improving these skills can transform relationships, boost career success and lead to personal growth. Whether you’re presenting to a crowd or chatting with a friend, good communication can enrich your life.
These are just a few of the valuable insights Julian shared. To learn more about his strategies for effective communication, I invite you to watch the full interview.
Want to learn more?
- Read Confident Presenter and Business Presentation Revolution
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- Attend our free, live masterclass on all things presentation skills