The 4 Main Types of Speaking Styles (& How to Master Them All)
Have you ever compared your speaking style with famous presenters like Steve Jobs or Jill Bolte? These people know how to adopt the right speaking style for every occasion.
Speaking style is a collection of characteristics that can relate speech to a particular communication setting. Every word we speak is a form of communication, whether directly or otherwise.
When people speak, their speech goes with a style. Hence, the way one person speaks differs from that of another person.
However, always speaking in a particular style is not required. In fact, that relies on the context, the subject, and the listener.
One time in a workshop, a presenter spoke in a way he felt was effective, but he didn't know it wouldn't work for the students in the class. Before the end of the class, half of the seats were empty, while the rest mumbled.
He learned the right speaking style the hard way, but you don't have to. Thus, gather more experience before accepting an invitation as a speaker or venturing fully into your public speaking career.
The 4 Main Types of Speaking Styles
There is an unlimited speaking style for every occasion. For example, the way you speak at a wedding is different from the way you will speak in the church.
Although you can use different styles on one occasion, it is still advisable to use various speaking styles.
One of the most exciting parts of public speaking is watching other people. As you watch others speak, you will understand that you can effectively communicate a message in various ways.
As previously stated, to discover your unique style of speaking, you must first determine which style speaks to you.
We've broken down the most basic types of speaking styles below to enable you to read through and decide which style is ideal for you.
1. The Motivational Style
A motivational speaker exhibits a variety of characteristics. It all swings to the following three things: tone, speed, and energy. A speaker who has perfected these elements is more likely to be a successful motivational speaker.
Any competent motivating speaker can energize the crowd. The goal is to inspire and captivate the listeners.
These three elements are explained below.
Tone: A motivational speech cannot be delivered in a flat tone. You must add a sense of mystery and drama through voice diversity.
Nothing is more annoying than a boring motivational speaker. Always remember to put your stamp on whatever you say and represent.
Pace: Your tempo influences how enthusiastic your audience will be. Speaking quickly frequently increases the enthusiasm of the audience.
However, you must be cautious not to overuse this technique. It may become tiresome if you continuously talk fast, and the listener will not keep up.
Energy: Another of the most important aspects of motivational speaking is energy. You wish to be upbeat and optimistic in your speech.
If you deliver an energy-filled performance or speech, your audience will remember you and become more eager to hear more of what you have to say.
2. The Command Style: Speak Firmly and Respectfully
You may occasionally need to convey your message with seriousness; thus, how you do so must be appropriate.
You should be able to persuade your listeners of the importance of what you have to say. People respect you more when you can control a room effectively.
You might also like: How to Speak with Conviction
Speaking about important matters is more suitable with the command style. This can include speaking in the presence of significant individuals or on touchy subjects. Exercising vocal control should be done correctly.
A powerful speech may be delivered effectively by speaking more slowly and with a lower tone. Making deliberate, smooth movements also enhances the whole experience.
Keep in mind that you must not stick to one style throughout your presentation.
While it is necessary to make this the dominating emotion of your speech, you can switch to motivating or some other style of speaking to make the style and pace different enough to engage your audience.
3. The Facilitating Style: Shake It Up
The motivational speaking and the facilitating speaking style are quite similar. What is the major distinction? Getting the crowd into action.
This style of speaking engages the audience completely. It might be difficult, though, because you must be quite knowledgeable about your subject matter. You never know what someone could ask when you open the floor.
The facilitator spends more time listening than speaking. They spend time crafting their messages and occasionally forget that communication requires reciprocity.
People have the chance to work with you on the collaborative exchange of ideas in the facilitator style. It involves speaking softly, using softer moves, and expressing warmth with your facial expressions and voice.
The most crucial thing to remember is that your daily speech patterns are just habits. Your options are not fully open. You have a lot to give people, so be sure to broaden your horizons, find your style, and be open to changing your speaking style to best suit your audience, including your message.
4. The Entertaining Style
An entertaining speaker wins over the audience—the ideal decision is to break up the usual melancholy and repetitive delivery.
A more energetic personality is best suited for this style. You must relax and take control of your surroundings. Similar to how this kind of speaker moves, they usually have a more approachable tone.
They exude a sense of comfort, which will, in turn, enables the listeners to feel at ease. The presentation exudes a lighthearted air that makes everyone more relaxed.
The assumption is that all you need to do to be successful is to be funny. This frequently results in speakers cramming jokes in their speeches, which takes attention away from their primary point and may come out as forced. You can watch these positive body gestures to improve your speech.
Conclusion: Mastering the Speaking Styles
You should be able to see that there's something distinctive to contribute to the audience after looking through these many speaking styles.
Many renowned speakers dominate the market, yet none of these people has the qualities that you do.
Therefore, find the mix or style that suits you the best. Farther than that, practice is the key to fluency. The first approach to honing your skill is to become aware of your speaking style.
Best wishes to you.
