There’s a lot of buzz nowadays about “being authentic.”  Some stations even state it as a concrete goal, but come nowhere near it when that mic opens. Here’s why:

Even if you think you’re being authentic, that isn’t determined by YOU.  It’s determined by the Listener.

Actors stuck in soap operas, who would love to star in feature films but never get offered any, think they’re being authentic.  But of course, they’re only ACTING authentic.

More accomplished actors are just being the character, imagining what they’d feel if they were that person.  They’re not acting like him, they’re just “being” him.  (Or her.)

Not coincidentally, almost every great actor has had at least one coach who helped him or her find “the firmament” – that place from which the real ability grows.

Ask yourself this: To your listener, are you a truly distinguishable personality, or are you just another voice saying words?

Don’t try to be perfect, and don’t be a clone.  Be YOU.  If you need help finding out who you are – yes, I’m serious – then get some coaching, or at the least, keep reading these tips.

Because as my friend Hank Haney (golf coach extraordinaire) says, “You can’t see your own swing.”