Video Summary: How to speak so that people want to listen by Julian Treasure

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Overview of This Video

The video titled “How to speak so that people want to listen” is a TED talk delivered by Julian Treasure, a renowned sound and communication expert. The main topics covered in this video include the seven “sins” of speaking, which are gossip, judging, negativity, complaining, making excuses, exaggeration, and dogmatism. Treasure suggests that these habits can make people less inclined to listen to us.

He then introduces four cornerstones of powerful speech: honesty, authenticity, integrity, and love. These principles, he argues, can make our speech more compelling and impactful. Additionally, Treasure delves into the technical aspects of speech, discussing the importance of voice modulation, including register, timbre, prosody, pace, pitch, and volume.

By watching this video, you can learn how to improve their speaking skills to become more persuasive and engaging communicators. The video offers practical tips and exercises to enhance voice modulation and to avoid common pitfalls in communication. Furthermore, it encourages you to consider the broader implications of conscious speaking and listening, promoting a more thoughtful and effective approach to communication.

Key Takeaways

1. Seven “Sins” of Speaking: Julian Treasure identifies seven habits that can make people less inclined to listen to us:
   • Gossip: Speaking ill of someone who’s not present.
   • Judging: It’s hard to listen to someone if you feel you’re being judged.
   • Negativity: Constant negativity makes it difficult for others to listen.
   • Complaining: Complaining spreads negativity rather than positivity.
   • Making Excuses: Not taking responsibility for one’s actions.
   • Exaggeration: Overstating facts can lead to a loss of trust.
   • Dogmatism: Confusing facts with opinions.
2. Four Cornerstones of Powerful Speech: Treasure suggests four principles that can make our speech more compelling:
   • Honesty: Being truthful in what you say.
   • Authenticity: Being yourself and standing in your own truth.
   • Integrity: Being your word, doing what you say, and being someone people can trust.
   • Love: Wishing people well, which makes it hard to judge them at the same time.
3. Voice Modulation: The speaker discusses the importance of various aspects of voice modulation:
   • Register: The ‘height’ or ‘depth’ of your voice can impact how people perceive you.
   • Timbre: The ‘feel’ of your voice can affect how people respond to you.
   • Prosody: The rhythm and intonation of your speech can convey meaning and emotion.
   • Pace: The speed at which you speak can influence the energy and importance of your message.
   • Pitch: The ‘highness’ or ‘lowness’ of your voice can indicate arousal or importance.
   • Volume: The loudness or softness of your voice can command attention or create intimacy.
4. Vocal Warm-Up Exercises: Treasure shares six vocal warm-up exercises that he does before every talk. These exercises help to prepare and warm up the voice for effective communication.
5. Conscious Speaking and Listening: The speaker emphasizes the potential of a world where people speak and listen consciously, promoting a more thoughtful and effective approach to communication.

Video Review

This video is a compelling exploration of the power of the human voice, offering practical advice that can be applied in various contexts. The speaker’s approach is engaging, making complex concepts accessible to a broad audience.

What I particularly appreciated was the speaker’s emphasis on the four cornerstones of powerful speech: Honesty, Authenticity, Integrity, and Love. These principles serve as a valuable guide for anyone seeking to improve their communication skills.

However, while the video does an excellent job of identifying negative speaking habits, it could have delved deeper into practical strategies for overcoming these habits. The speaker’s advice, while sound, is somewhat general and could benefit from more specific examples or exercises.

Despite this minor shortcoming, the video is a valuable resource. It encourages viewers to reflect on their speaking habits and provides a foundation for improvement. Whether you’re a seasoned public speaker or someone looking to enhance your everyday communication, this video offers insights that can lead to meaningful change.

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