101 Ways to Improve Customer Service: Training, Tools, Tips, and Techniques

Chapter 24. Tongue-Tying Twisters: Word Enunciation

Goal

To communicate clearly and precisely through voice and diction. Participants will practice reading and pronouncing words by saying tongue twisters.

Time Required

Approximately 30 minutes

Group Size

Subgroups of four or five persons each

Materials

• One copy of the Tongue-Tying Twisters Handout for each participant.

• One sheet of paper and a pencil for each participant (optional).

Process

1. Introduce the session by stating that the ability to communicate clearly and concisely is an important part of providing exceptional customer service. This activity is designed to help participants practice these skills in a fun and amusing way.

2. Form subgroups of four or five persons each.

3. Distribute one copy of the handout to each participant.

4. Explain that the members of each group are to read all twelve sentences out loud, first individually in round-robin format and then in unison. Continue until time is called.

5. Allow approximately 10 minutes for the task to be completed, and then call time.

6. Optional: Distribute one sheet of paper and a pencil to each participant and ask each person to write an original tongue twister. Direct members of each group to pass their sheets to other members, who will read the twisters out loud.

7. Facilitate a large group discussion by ...