Summary of How to Speak So That People Want to Listen | Julian Treasure
In this impactful TED Talk, sound and communication expert Julian Treasure explores how we can transform the way we speak so that others actually want to listen. With insights into vocal habits, practical techniques, and the emotional foundations of great communication, the video offers a roadmap for using our voices to influence, inspire, and connect.
Why the Human Voice Matters
The human voice is arguably the most powerful instrument we all possess. It can start wars or inspire peace, express love or provoke anger. Yet many of us feel unheard—even ignored—when we speak. Treasure urges us to reclaim the power of our voice by speaking consciously and compassionately.
The 7 Deadly Sins of Speaking
Treasure identifies seven common habits that can weaken our message and push people away:
- Gossip – Speaking negatively about others when they’re not present destroys trust and spreads negativity.
- Judgment – Constantly evaluating others makes it hard for listeners to feel safe or open.
- Negativity – Habitual complaining drains energy and repels attention.
- Excuses – Dodging responsibility erodes credibility and weakens your voice.
- Exaggeration – Stretching the truth damages trust and causes listeners to doubt your sincerity.
- Dogmatism – Confusing opinions with absolute truth often leads to argument rather than understanding.
- (Note: While the video references seven sins, these six are most emphasized.)
The Foundations of Powerful Speaking: HAIL
To build positive, authentic communication, Treasure introduces a simple yet powerful acronym: HAIL, which also means “great” or “awesome” in Arabic. Each letter represents a core principle:
- H – Honesty: Speak the truth clearly and with integrity.
- A – Authenticity: Be yourself—don’t pretend to be someone you’re not.
- I – Integrity: Do what you say and build trust through consistency.
- L – Love: Approach others with goodwill and kindness, not necessarily romance, but benevolence.
Together, these values foster connection, respect, and credibility in every conversation.
Tools to Improve Your Vocal Delivery
Julian Treasure emphasizes that how we say something is just as important as what we say. He shares several vocal tools that can be used to make speech more engaging and effective:
🎤 Vocal Register
Speak from the chest voice for depth and authority. A too-high pitch may sound shrill, while too-low may lack clarity.
🎵 Melody and Pitch Variation
Avoid a flat, monotonous tone. Use pitch variety to keep listeners engaged and convey emotion.
⏱️ Pace
Varying your speed creates emphasis and clarity. Don’t rush—sometimes slowing down speaks volumes.
🤫 Silence
Strategic pauses are powerful. They give weight to your words and eliminate filler sounds like “um” or “uh.”
🔊 Volume Control
Speak loudly enough to be heard, but don’t shout. Adjust your volume to express emotion and maintain interest.
🎶 Rhythm
Rhythmic speech patterns are easier to follow and more pleasing to the ear. Avoid ending every sentence with the same inflection or rhythm.
Vocal Warm-Up Exercises
Just as athletes warm up their bodies, speakers should warm up their voices. Treasure shares six fun and effective exercises:
- “Ahhhh” Breath – Deep inhale, then exhale on an “ah” sound to relax vocal cords.
- “Ba ba ba” Repetition – Energizes the lips and mouth.
- Lip Trills – Buzz your lips like a motorboat to loosen facial muscles.
- Tongue Trills (“La la la”) – Enhances clarity and articulation.
- Rolling “R”s – Warms up the tongue and increases resonance.
- Siren Sounds – Glide from high to low pitch (“wee” to “woo”) to stretch vocal range.
These exercises enhance tone, clarity, and vocal endurance—especially helpful before public speaking, presentations, or interviews.
Reflections
Treasure ends with a vision: a world where people speak consciously, listen actively, and create space for meaningful dialogue. He urges us to pay attention to the sound environments we create and the impact our words have on others.
The takeaway? Your voice is a tool of change—use it wisely, kindly, and with intention.
Watch the full speech below:
Conclusion
Julian Treasure’s talk is a must-watch for anyone who wants to speak more effectively, inspire change, and be truly heard. By avoiding harmful habits, embracing the values of HAIL, and using simple voice techniques, we can all speak so that people genuinely want to listen.