Have you listened to people speaking lately – and heard a certain tone that might set your teeth on edge?
There’s a sound known as Australian question intonation? Or AQI? Or uptalk? Or high rising terminal?
It’s that rising inflection at the end of a sentence?
Even if you’re not asking a question?
It’s very common among teenagers?
But it seems to be infecting everyone else?
It’s really confusing, especially in public speakers, leaders and managers?
85% of managers surveyed by UK firm Pearson found the trait “a clear indicator of a person’s insecurity or emotional weakness”, to the extent that using this tone can seriously damage your chances of getting promoted or hired.
Be aware if it’s starting to creep into your own speech, and for more authority and gravitas, let your voice fall at the end of a sentence.