You know your stuff. You’re intelligent and knowledgeable, which is why you’ve been promoted. But even though you’re a business professional, English is not your first language. Sometimes that holds you back. When you conduct meetings not everyone always understands you.
It’s not a question of the right words or correct expressions, and you’re comfortable with English grammar. But sometimes you start to worry that your words won’t come out right. There’s a little voice inside your head asking, “Will I sound foolish?” So, instead of speaking confidently, you lower your voice and speak in a monotone. You skim over the words so quickly that most people can barely hear you, let alone understand you.
Sounds familiar? Rest assured you’re not alone. We all have moments of anxiety when we’re trying to express ourselves, whether it’s in a meeting or during a presentation. But if you’re a non-native English speaker the challenges are even greater. So, first of all, give yourself a break! And secondly, take steps to boost your confidence, speak with more authority, and increase your presence as a leader.
Here are a few techniques I use with my clients, both native English speakers and not, since anyone can benefit from the following:
1. Practice…And Open Wide
Practice does not make “perfect.” But it will help you to improve. The more you practice speaking English each day, the less anxious you’ll feel about expressing yourself. Practice pronunciation and enunciation. Speaking clearly means you have to open your mouth wide!
2. Take Your Time…And Breathe
Don’t rush. Give yourself a chance to find the right words. Otherwise you may start speaking too quickly, which will make you even more nervous. If you’re nervous you’re more likely to mix up what you want to say, and how you want to say it. Breathe! Breathing helps us collect our thoughts. Plus, taking time shows thoughtfulness, which is a valued leadership quality.
3. Be Afraid…And Do It Anyway
Fear is natural and understandable. But you can’t let butterflies in your stomach get the better of you. Believe you can speak clearly and confidently and make yourself try to do exactly that. You’d be surprised at how much better you’ll feel if you try to create new, better habits instead of slipping into old, bad ones.
4. Get Help…Call A Coach
Bill McCartney, a famed American football coach, once said “All coaching is, is taking a player where he can’t take himself.” Mr. McCartney was right. You can’t always get where you want to go on your own. If you’d like to learn more about how a good coach can help you, have a look at Five Ways A Good Coach Can Improve Your Business Communication.
Schedule a 30 minute complimentary phone or video meeting to meet Dr. Sandra Folk. She’ll be happy to talk to you about your business communications challenges.