How to improve verbal articulation skills?

Question

Hi,

I would value the advice of other's with regard to my verbal communication / articulation, It is poor! I'd tried to analyse the way in which my brain works; I think I've got a glitch between my brain and my mouth! Seriously. My written communication is fine and if I were asked to write down everything I wanted to say, I'd be fine. But when it comes to translating the message to words I often get confused or the words simply can't be 'found' by my brain and I'm left saying 'err, whats that word?' or 'you know what I mean' or often just being at a lost for words. Where as my brain knows what I should be saying, I even 'feel' what I need to say, but it just doesn't come out in the way I hoped. It is having an adverse impact on my professional relationships as I feel this is a barrier to progression. I'm sure I am not alone in this, but sometimes it feels like it!

Are there any books that anyone can recommend? or simply any tips or techniques? Even some sympathy might help hehe ;-)

Thanks in advance x

Answer 1

All you can do is practice using terms that you often struggle to recall when you're put on the spot. It's just like learning to speak when you're a toddler, and if you're thrust into a situation in which you have to do a lot of speaking, such as a new job, that would be a big help.

Answer 2

I have the exact same problem.  I think it is because I am such a visual person--I easily understand what I see, but not what I hear with the exception of music--that i have difficulty even carrying on a conversation aloud.  I recently got a job which requires me to do a lot of speaking over the phone.  I have to observe my coworkers and then (in private) practise certain phrases and inflections over and over until it sounds natural.  But I sometimes have difficulty catching the gist of what people are saying, so then I seem dumb because even though I understand all the words, I don't quite catch the point all the time.  It helps to take a few moments to gather thoughts, or to write down what I have been told so I understand first before speaking.  Good luck, and you are not alone with this "problem"!  

Answer 3

I would advise you to slow down.  It sounds like you're trying to speak faster than your brain can allow.  Slow down and remember to breath.