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As part of the seminar program organized by the Continuing Education Center of Kyrgyz-Turkish Manas University (KTMU), a seminar titled “An Effective Voice – A Memorable Image” was delivered by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Aynura Kabatay Kyzy, Candidate of Philological Sciences. Held at the Kasym Tynystanov Conference Hall, the seminar explored the influence of voice and speaking techniques on personal image in communication.

Aimed at developing participants’ effective speaking skills, the seminar focused on topics such as proper breathing, voice control, articulation, diction, intonation, and orthoepy (correct pronunciation). Combining theoretical knowledge with practical exercises, the event introduced techniques aimed to improve communication skills and strengthen interpersonal relationships.

The Importance of Voice and Personal Image in Communication

In his opening remarks, Prof. Dr. Yücel Öksüz, Head of the Continuing Education Center, emphasized the importance of voice and the impression a person makes on others in interpersonal relationships. He noted that communication depends not only on what a person says but also on how they say it and the impression they leave on their interlocutor. “Communication’s effectiveness depends not only on what they say but also on how they speak, how they sound, and the impression they leave on others,” Öksüz stated. He also emphasized that the ability to speak eloquently, clearly, and persuasively is essential for influencing others. Speaking sincerely and inspiring trust, he explained, can help a person connect with others on an emotional level. “When we speak from the heart and inspire trust in others, our words can touch both their minds and their hearts,” he added.

Key Principles of Effective Speaking

During the seminar, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Aynura Kabatay Kyzy emphasized that communication is an integral part of everyday life. According to her, having good ideas is not enough; it is equally important to convey them to others accurately, clearly, and persuasively.

She explained the five main stages of the art of rhetoric: invention (inventio), arrangement and composition (dispositio), style and expression (elocutio), memory (memoria), and delivery (actio). She also highlighted the importance of using the voice correctly, regulating breathing, and improving articulation, diction, intonation, and correct pronunciation (orthoepy) to speak effectively.

Proper Breathing and Voice Control

Particular attention was paid to the role of proper breathing and voice control in effective speaking. Kabatay Kyzy discussed the characteristics of high and low vocal registers and explained that proper breathing helps speakers use their voices clearly, consistently, and effectively.

She introduced clavicular, chest, and diaphragmatic breathing techniques, emphasizing the importance of diaphragmatic breathing while speaking. She also demonstrated practical exercises to help participants regulate their breathing correctly.

Noting that infants naturally breathe using their diaphragms, but that breathing habits may change as people grow older, Kabatay Kyzy explained that proper use of the diaphragm helps produce the voice more freely and prevents vocal fatigue during speaking.

Articulation, Diction, and Intonation

The seminar also explored the importance of accurate sound production, diction, and intonation in speech. Kabatay Kyzy explained that pronouncing sounds clearly and using the speech organs correctly directly affect the clarity and intelligibility of spoken language.

According to her, incorrect pronunciation can alter the meaning of individual words and even entire sentences. Intonation, meanwhile, plays an important role in conveying the meaning of a statement, the speaker’s emotions, and their attitude to the listener.

Kabatay Kyzy noted that tongue twisters and various sound combinations are effective tools for practicing articulation and correct pronunciation. She also emphasized that every language has its own distinctive intonation patterns.

The Importance of Speaking Pace and Orthoepy

Highlighting the influence of speaking pace on how well listeners understand a message, Kabatay Kyzy explained the importance of speaking at an appropriate speed rather than too quickly or too slowly. She cited approximately 120 words per minute as a general guideline for speaking pace, noting that the appropriate rate may vary depending on the characteristics of each language.

The final part of the seminar focused on pronouncing words in accordance with the pronunciation standards of the literary language. Participants were reminded of the importance of articulating words clearly, conveying ideas intelligibly, and observing linguistic norms when speaking.

The seminar concluded with a combination of theoretical discussion and practical exercises. At the end of the event, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Aynura Kabatay Kyzy was presented with a certificate of appreciation.