What are some ways to improve the sound of your voice?

Question

People say I don't speak loud enough.
Also, that I could enunciate more clearly.

Answer 1

if doing a speech: stand up straight, talk from below(diaphram) when breathing take deep breath not so your shoulders go out but so your belly does, drink water before and clear throght. Most important RELAX it helps

Answer 2

I'm going to check back in a few minutes. Could you give us a few more details? What do you think your voice is lacking? How would you like it to sound? Problems with your voice? Voice type i.e. soprano, alto....it would be helpful to know a little more. Thank you.

Wow, people say the same thing about me. I think, for me anyway, that when I speak with more energy and authority, people hear me a lot easier. Most people can't believe I'm an opera singer because I'm so 'soft spoken'. I've also been an actor so I do know how to project, but I also have a shy streak.
I think recording yourself is a good idea (as someone suggested below) or you actually can take Diction/Speaking lessons. A lot of actors take them (you usually find them at university's but you could probably find a speech pathologist who is willing to help) and it is really helpful. You learn appropriate breath support for your speaking voice, how to articulate without sounding unnatural....all the things you need to 'sound better'. I think my 'soft voice' reflects how I'm feeling about myself at times. I can trace mine back to never being allowed to raise my voice as a child.....strange how those things can effect people. I wish you luck and definitely see a professional about it. They can help you in a very short period of time. Best of luck to you.

Answer 3

Have you tried listening to a recording of yourself speaking? Is that what's prompting this question? Please be aware that the way you hear yourself is through the bones of your skull, not through the air the way other people hear you. I'm always startled when I hear recordings of myself, because my voice is so much higher than I think it is.

If you still think that your voice needs improvement, contact a voice teacher and make arrangements to have him analyse your speaking voice. If it's too nasal, too high-pitched, etc. he'll give you exercises to correct whatever problems you have. A good voice teacher will tell you if it really doesn't need improving.

Answer 4

Speak from the diaphram and not your nose. Good posture, no dairy if you are about to perform in front of an audience. Visit a speech and hearing pathologist if you want sincere resolutions. Your family Doctor can recommend someone in your area.

Answer 5

Practice practice practice.

Answer 6

practice singing in the shower :p

Answer 7

PRACTICE!!!