by Matt Abrahams / © 2024, Fast Company. Mansueto Ventures, LLC. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

27

For most of us, presenting confidently and clearly in our native language is hard enough. But communicating in another language is marked by unique challenges and opportunities for growth. 

  Fortunately, there are steps that can help speakers feel less anxious and be more authentic and successful in their communication, even when presenting in their non-native language. 

  Here’s how you can give a clear and confident presentation at work—no matter the language. 

Clarity over perfection

  One critical mindset shift for non-native speakers is to focus on getting your point across—rather than trying to sound like a native speaker. Clarity of message should always trump language proficiency. Aiming for perfect pronunciation or mastery of idiomatic expressions can create undue pressure and waste of precious cognitive bandwidth. 

  Instead, it is more fruitful to concentrate on the structure and clarity of the points being made. This approach allows for authentic communication, where the speaker’s unique voice is heard. Rather than judge and ruminate on your exact wording, focus on providing examples and analogies that help get your point across.

  In order to assure that you are successfully getting your point across, be sure to prioritize reflection. Dedicate time after every speaking opportunity for self-reflection. Even a few minutes can make a huge difference. Be deliberate about identifying what went well and what you could improve. Keep a reflection journal to track your progress, without verging into perfectionism. 

Practice

  When it comes to practice, repetition and consistency are key. Regularly engaging in speaking exercises, whether through role-playing scenarios or using technology to simulate conversations, can greatly enhance your comfort level and proficiency. 

  You can also try recording yourself and then listening to the playback. This provides another opportunity to learn and to adjust your speech tempo, clarity and pronunciation. There are also language learning apps that facilitate daily practice and online forums where one can engage with other language learners and native speakers.

...

Visit Fast Company online.