Voice Control
Voice Control: The Hidden Power in How You Speak
By Rich Waterman
Many years ago, I took a course on public speaking. Now, I’ve always been pretty comfortable on stage, and over the years I’ve trained plenty of people to communicate with more confidence and clarity.
But here’s the thing: learning is never finished. The moment you think you’ve mastered something is the moment you start to slip. That’s why I still take time to revisit the fundamentals—and one of the most powerful tools I’ve come across is voice control, especially how you end a sentence.
The Pitch at the End Matters More Than You Think
Whether you're speaking to an audience or just having a chat with a friend, your vocal pitch at the end of a sentence changes the entire meaning of what you're saying. Here’s how:
1. Rising Pitch = A Question
When we ask a question, we naturally raise our pitch at the end.
Often, we even lift our eyebrows.
This isn’t just body language—it’s a social cue.
If you're unsure when it’s your turn to speak, listen for the rising pitch and watch for raised eyebrows. That’s your cue.
2. Flat Pitch = A Statement
If the pitch stays flat at the end of a sentence, it signals a statement.
Now here’s a cheeky little trap: sometimes people ask a question but use a flat tone—what I call a false question.
So if your partner asks something that sounds like a question but their tone is flat? Proceed with caution… You've been warned.
3. Falling Pitch = A Command
Lowering your pitch at the end of a sentence adds authority and certainty.
Eyebrows often lower too—subtly reinforcing the command.
This is powerful when introducing yourself, especially in high-stakes settings like interviews, speeches, or networking.
Compare these two versions:
❌ “Hi, I’m Rich? I live near London? I’m a coach and help people transform their lives?”
✅ “Hi, I’m Rich. I live near London. I’m a coach and help people transform their lives.”
Which one sounds more credible and confident?
My Favourite Sneaky Trick
Here’s where it gets fun. You can take a question and make it a command simply by dropping your pitch.
For example:
Rising pitch: “Would you like to do this now?” → Sounds optional.
Falling pitch: “Would you like to do this now.” → Sounds like it’s happening.
It’s subtle. But in a negotiation—or when talking to your kids—it makes a big difference. (Though I suspect mine will stop falling for this now that they’ve read it…)
Final Thought
Voice control is one of the most underrated tools for influence—whether you’re on stage, in a meeting, or negotiating bedtime with a five-year-old.
Start paying attention to your pitch.
It’s a small tweak that can make a huge difference.
Thanks for reading.
Being Extraordinary with Rich Waterman
