No Worries. They Speak English
Many business professionals who travel overseas feel comfortable in knowing that the majority of people in other countries speak English. They know that even if a country’s official language is German or Cantonese, they will undoubtedly be able to speak in English and easily communicate with their business associates, as well as the hotel and taxi drivers. No worries, they speak English.
While it may be true that simple communications are relatively easy, more complex communications may present more of a challenge. When working with clients, colleagues, superiors and staff, it’s critical that when you communicate, your intended meaning comes across successfully.
When you are conducting business in a foreign country, whether English is your first language or not, you will want to ensure a clear and successful communication. You can achieve this if you think carefully before you speak and apply some of the tips below.
The most obvious yet very important tip is to avoid the use of slang and buzzwords. When an American English person says “I’ll fill you in later” or “let’s play it by ear,” they really mean, “I will provide the details later” and “Let’s wait for further information before taking further action.” If this is what you mean, then these are the words you should use.
Speak slowly and distinctly. You may be speaking to a colleague and trying to read their reaction to what you are saying. If they look disagreeable, you may be wondering if it’s because they disagree with the content of what you’re saying to them. But in reality, it may be that they do not understand or misunderstand your message altogether. While they are thinking about the words you’ve chosen, they have stopped listening to your core message.
Try to learn some of the local language and use it during your communications. It will show your international colleagues that you have taken an interest in their culture and are making an effort to communicate as effectively as possible.
Be mindful of your vocabulary. Certain words that are used in different cultures, while all in English, may have the same definition, but have a slightly different meaning. Americans, for example, may use the word “leverage” to describe a method of “taking advantage” of a market or competitive situation. Chances are high that this particular word is not used the same way in the country you are visiting.
Emphasize clarity over grammar. While grammar is always the first rule in writing and speaking English, or any language, what’s more important for global communications is clarity of the message. Focus on your point and strive to communicate your message as succinctly as possible.
Stay alert. Avoiding slang, speaking clearly and learning local language phrases can be difficult to do, especially when you are traveling and feel jet lagged, in need of sleep and enduring some of the stress that comes along with international travel. Try to stay alert and keep your communication skills sharp.
It’s one thing to have a native accent but quite another to speak English in a way that is not being understood and is causing a communication breakdown. In order to build effective global work teams and manage projects across international borders, clear and precise communications are a necessity, and cultural communication breakdowns are no longer acceptable.
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