Who is an Occupational or Professional Voice User?

 

Who is an Occupational or Professional Voice User?

An occupational or professional voice user is anyone whose voice is critical to their career or job. We are all accustomed to thinking of singers, actors/actresses and broadcast personalities as professional voice users, but what about other occupational voice users?

Teachers, clergy, retail workers, courtroom attorneys, telemarketers, and receptionists are also people for whom spoken communication is a vital part of what they do. Despite email and Internet communications, we cannot really imagine an effective classroom, church, or courtroom without voice. Can you imagine the difficulties of a physician conveying information to a patient or colleague, or a business executive conducting a meeting without voice?

Why is the Voice Important?

Voice is something that is often taken for granted. Many people, including occupational voice users don’t pay attention to their voice until they develop a significant problem with it. These voice problems can have an adverse effect upon their ability to do their job.

What can be done About These Issues?

As with many ailments, awareness is the key. First, people must be made aware of voice-related occupations. A person may not know that they are in such a profession until a voice problem brings the issue to the forefront.

Secondly, one needs to be aware that high voice demand professions do place you at higher risk for developing vocal difficulties. You must listen to your own voice in order to recognize when you are developing problems. Do not accept hoarseness as part of the job. Be aware that there are steps you can take to help prevent voice problems.

Finally, know that proper evaluation and treatment can eliminate most voice-related problems. It can set you up to succeed at even the most demanding voice-related occupation.
Location: United States

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