You speak — but it feels like no one’s really listening. Polite nods, the occasional “uh-huh” on Zoom… but no real response. You prepared. You knew what to say. But you missed the most important thing: connection.
It’s not always about content. Sometimes people don’t hear you because your voice doesn’t carry your true self. Let’s break down three real-life scenarios and the subtle mistakes that quietly steal your impact.
Scenario 1: A Tech Lead Presents a Project to the Team
Andrei is a brilliant tech expert. He’s presenting a new product to a team of 15 people. He knows every detail. But after ten minutes, people are checking their phones. He speaks fast, quietly, in a flat tone.
What went wrong?
- His voice didn’t capture attention - the monotone switched listeners off.
He didn’t pause - there was no space to absorb meaning.
His body was tense, eyes on the screen - not on the team.
Result: The project mattered, but his delivery felt routine. The team was uninvolved. Questions were weak. Trust - low.
Scenario 2: A Startup Founder Pitches to Investors
Karina is the founder of a project with big market potential. She joins the Zoom pitch full of excitement but... From the first second, she speaks too fast. Her voice is high-pitched and nervous. Investors are listening, but they don’t feel her strength.
What went wrong?
Her voice slipped into a high register → a sign of anxiety and lack of confidence.
Too many words per second → energy gets lost, message becomes unclear.
No solid vocal grounding - everything sounds on edge.
Result: The product is interesting, but they don’t trust her as a leader. She needs investment but her voice says she’s not sure of it herself.
Scenario 3: A Specialist Explains a Service to a Client on Zoom
Mikhail works in consulting. He’s on his first call with a potential client. He tries to sound clear, explains a lot… but the client cuts him off: “Thanks, we’ll think about it.” The deal is gone.
What went wrong?
His voice lacked inner grounding - almost apologetic.
He was more focused on convincing than connecting.
He didn’t truly listen, he missed the moment to pause and let it land.
Result: The client didn’t leave because he didn’t understand. He left because he didn’t feel Mikhail’s confidence or conviction.
So… Why Aren’t You Really Being Heard?
Here are 3 hidden reasons:
Your voice doesn’t reflect your inner state. Even the best script won’t work if your voice sounds weak, tense, or unsure.
You don’t create presence. People can tell when you’re truly there - and when you’re stuck in your head.
You don’t manage vocal energy. Without pauses, rhythm, and vocal dynamics, even your best ideas can vanish into thin air.
3 Simple Exercises to Help People Hear You:
“Voice from the Body”. Before an important call - stand up, take 3 deep breaths, and say your name on the exhale like you’re on stage.
This grounds your voice and brings out your natural resonance.“Power Pause”. Before speaking - look into the listener’s eyes (or the camera). Pause for 2–3 seconds. Give yourself space. This moment builds authority before a single word is spoken.
“Intonation Arc”. Take any sentence and read it out loud, letting your voice rise and fall. Intonation helps emphasize meaning and keeps attention alive.
Want to learn more about speaking? Come to my training https://voice-and-leadership.kardakova.eu/en.php
