How to Talk Like You’re Not a Victim

Why the way your employees speak could make them safer

Most people think self-defense is all about hitting, kicking or fighting back. That’s not always true. One of the most powerful tools your staff can learn is how to speak in a way that shows strength and control.We call this verbalisation. It’s the ability to talk with authority. To give clear commands. And to let a potential attacker know they have picked the wrong target.

What is verbalisation in self-defense?

Verbalisation means speaking in a way that shows confidence. Not arrogance. Not aggression. Just strong, calm, and clear communication.It includes things like:

• Giving a firm command
• Using strong body language
• Making eye contact
• Controlling tone and pace of voice

This is not shouting or swearing. It’s not trying to be a hero. It’s about sounding in control, even when things feel unsafe.

Why this matters at work

Whether your employees work in an office, on the road, or in the field, they deal with people every day. Some friendly. Some not. Most crimes in South Africa involve some kind of verbal interaction. A hijacker gives an order. A scammer distracts. An aggressive person tests boundaries. If your staff don’t know how to respond with authority, they are more likely to be seen as weak or unsure. Criminals look for easy targets. People who hesitate. People who sound unsure. People who won’t say no.

How to Speak So You Don’t Look Like a Victim

Criminals often test their target before they act.

They might ask for directions. Step into your space. Try to distract you. Speak aggressively. Or act like they need help. How your team responds in that moment can make all the difference. Here’s what we teach during verbalisation training:

1. Use a firm, clear voice

Don’t whisper. Don’t mumble. Don’t sound unsure.

Say what you mean with purpose.Examples:

• “Stop right there.”
• “Back off.”
• “I don’t want any trouble. Walk away.”
• “I said NO.”

Short, clear sentences. No apologising. No nervous smiles.

2. Stand tall and face the person

Your voice and body must match. If you say “Back off” but look down and shrink away, it won’t work. We train staff to:

• Keep their shoulders square
• Stand firm
• Make eye contact without being aggressive
• Never turn their back on a threat

3. Don’t apologise for setting boundaries

Being polite can get you hurt.

Instead of saying:

“Sorry, I don’t really want to…”

Say:

“No, I can’t help you. Please move away.”

4. Repeat yourself if needed

Repeat the same command in the same strong tone.

“Back away.”

“Back away.”

“Back away.”

This shows you are serious and cannot be easily distracted.

5. Control your panic

Fear can make your voice shaky. That’s normal.

But with the right training, people learn how to breathe, slow down, and project calm and control even under pressure.

Verbalisation is a powerful deterrent

It can stop a criminal before they even make a move.

It gives your employees a non-violent, effective tool they can use anywhere. In the office. In traffic. In the parking lot. Even at home.It builds assertiveness, awareness, and confidence. All of which lead to better safety outcomes at work and beyond.

Why your company should care

Employees who know how to speak up and take control are:

• Less likely to panic
• Less likely to freeze
• Less likely to become victims

This leads to:

• Better personal safety
• Improved morale
• Reduced trauma risk
• Stronger compliance with your duty of care obligations

Ready to give your staff a voice that protects them?

At COBRA Self-Defense, we offer on-site corporate training that covers verbalisation, situational awareness, and real-world self-defense. Our sessions are short, practical, and suitable for all staff, regardless of fitness or experience. Let’s empower your team to speak with strength and stay safe in a country where that skill can be lifesaving.

Contact us today to book a session for your team.

E-mail: info@cobradefense.co.za

Cell 082 299 9117