Sam Phillips, the record producer who was known for discovering Elvis, had a unique philosophy. He urged his artists to play their music the way they felt it. According to Johnny Cash, Sam Phillips was “a producer who helped artists uncover their own voice.”

I firmly believe that artists are not the only individuals who need to uncover their authentic voice. Speaking with authority is the ability to consistently use your voice, your words, and your body language to communicate with strength, power and clarity.

Have you ever heard your voice on tape, and hated it? Here are three ways to develop the voice that means business, makes business, and keeps business to remain competitive in today’s highly specialized marketplace.

• Say Mmm-hmm. Press your lips together and say “mmm-hmm,” as if you were agreeing with something someone said. After a number of “mmm-hmm’s” say the number “one” following the “um-hmm” at the same pitch as the end of the “mmm-hmm.” This is your natural voice—try to speak at that pitch.

• Improve Believability Through Downward Inflections. Many people project uncertainty because they end with an upward inflection that sounds like a question. End your sentences using a downward inflection to create an image of credibility and professionalism.

• Let Your Face Tell Your Voice How to Sound. Your facial expression has an impact on the way your voice sounds. If you don’t believe me, try to say “How may I help you?” in a positive, professional tone while you are scowling and looking angry. It is impossible! While you want a facial expression that matches the mood of your conversation, make a special effort to create a positive expression: a smile; uplifted eyebrows; direct eye contact; head level parallel to the floor. Your voice will project more powerfully; your tone will come across more positively; and you will create a vocal bond with your listeners that leads to increased success.

When you try to sound like everyone else, you can actually ruin your authentic speaking voice. Learn from Sam Phillips, who was against conformity and emphasized self-expression in his artists. It paid off with superstars like Elvis, Johnny Cash, B.B. King, Jerry Lee Lewis, Roy Orbison and others. Each of these singers has a style that is unique and memorable. You have a voice that is unique to you—a voice that can help you project a powerful image of confidence and credibility. Make it a priority to discover your authentic voice, and develop it into the voice that means business.”