A client contacted me before an important interview

Two weeks ago, one of my client’s contacted me with a dilemma; he had had a bad cold – losing his voice in the process. He had largely recovered from the cold although his nose was still quite blocked up, but his voice was very croaky. What made it worse was that he had an important job interview in 3 day’s time and he was worried his voice would let him down.

When we speak to people, we want to sound ‘in control’ and interesting. If our voices aren’t working, it can make us feel apologetic or on ‘the back foot’. Certainly if I converse with people when I have a cold, I don’t feel as confident – and when you have an interview, you want to go in with positive thoughts!

I am not a doctor, and I always state that if the throat hurts or you have difficulties swallowing, you should seek advice from a Doctor or Pharmacist.

Richard was not in this situation, and this was the advice I gave him.

The cold and extra mucus in his nasal passages had led to his vocal chords being inflamed, leading to them not being able to move efficiently – hence the voice being lost.

• In order to take down the inflammation of the chords, Ibropruphen should be taken for up to 3 days. However, it shouldn’t be taken if your doctor has advised you not to take this drug, or if you have stomach ulcers.

• A decongestant should also be taken for up to three days. This will reduce the mucus which is blocking the chords.

• I would also recommend ‘steaming’ the voice with hot water in a bowl with VICK (but only ½ a tea spoon in the water). Put your head under a towel and breathe in the steam but be careful not to scald yourself.

• Gargle with salt water 3 times a day, just to keep the throat clean.

• Put euchalyptus oil on your pillow at night to unblock the nasal passages.

Richard did this for three days, and his voice became clearer and stronger. It was virtually back to normal for the interview. I am pleased to say, he felt the interview went very well.

I am often asked about vocal health and working with individuals in this area. Ideally I work face to face with clients, although I am able to do some basic work virtually. More information or to book read my Vocal Training

or call 08000938464 for more information.