Three Essential Tips for Maintaining a Healthy Voice During Online Speaking

Updated: Jan 1

Introduction

Brief overview of the importance of vocal health for actors, singers, business professionals, and any occupational voice user.
Explanation of specific techniques to reduce tension and strain due to speaking online.

A microphone reduces the need to strain or speak loudly. When we are sitting in front of a computer, people tend to increase their volume. Using a headset can mitigate this by giving us direct feedback from the speakers so we can hear clearly and the ability to use the microphone near our mouth.
Any external mic that can be placed close to the user can work, it does not have to be a headset. There are many good options out there! Try this Samsung usb mic https://samsontech.com/products/microphones/usb-microphones/gomicvideo/. I am not an affiliate, I just like the specs and price.
Depending on what you are doing, you will want to consider different types of setups, but in general, attempt to use your nice and relaxed speaking voice when using the microphone. Go to your computer settings to listen back and adjust the output as needed.

Interestingly, posture affects breath control and voice projection. What we do statically may have more of an impact than what we do while moving. For instance, you work on strengthening your core at the gym for 45 minutes, but have poor posture for 6 hours while at work. For many people, fixing the static postures we find ourselves in has a huge impact on functioning.
In general, it is recommended your head and hand positioning are parallel to the ground with arms and feet at 90 degree angles when seated.
Muscles impact our voice production and sensations, so relaxed upper body muscles will support healthy voicing and strained muscles often contribute to issues.
Try moving your body around, roll your shoulders, turn your head a few times, or take a walk.

Staying hydrated: it is clear that staying systemically hydrated reduces the perceived effort of voicing, so keep that water bottle next to you!
Complete vocal warm-ups before sessions to prepare the voice, this could be humming, glides, or
speaking easily.
Take regular breaks during long video calls to rest the voice. This is especially true at the end of a long speaking task or day. It is the equivalent of sitting down after running a marathon. Your system needs a break to repair.

Using a microphone setup, maintaining proper posture, and regularly incorporating vocal care practices contribute to healthy voice maintenance.
Integrating these into your habits and work routine will improve vocal longevity and performance.
Share your own vocal care techniques or challenges encountered during online speaking with me!