TOP TIPS on Effective English
We have written these TOP TIPS on effective English for anyone who is using English in an international context.
They are based on years of experience and advocated by key professional and government bodies.
12 TOP TIPS on Effective English
- Shouting loudly in English is not the answer! Turning up the volume is the classic default position of the frustrated Brit who cannot get his message across to a non-native speaker. The chances are that clarity will solve the problem whereas loudness will not.
- Keep your English simple. Try to use short phrases or sentences. Stick to just one idea per sentence and uncomplicated vocabulary. Don’t talk just for the sake of talking – it doesn’t impress. Sometimes less is more.
- Don’t go round the houses! British people tend to use indirect language to avoid giving offence but it can be confusing. Being precise and unambiguous can be very helpful and does not need to sound as if you are being rude.
- Be considerate when you are talking to someone of a different nationality. However good their English, they have not been brought up using it in a UK context like you have. That means you should try to avoid idioms which are rooted in British culture like “sticky wicket” or “own goal”.
- Just think about what you are saying. Don’t tell your foreign business partner that you are feeling “as cool as a cucumber” or “as sick as a parrot” about some big deal. He won’t have a clue what you’re talking about. Steer clear of English similes like these!
- Watch out for those negative contractions. Haven’t, mustn’t, couldn’t, isn’t, wouldn’t can be very confusing for non-native speakers. It is much better to use have not, must not, could not, is not, would not.
- Using slang may be cool at home but it can be decidedly naff overseas. It’s fine being “one of the lads” and telling your old mates in the UK that you’re “chuffed” or “gutted” about something but it won’t make sense to anyone when you are abroad. You will need to take a different approach to being friendly with people.
- In a nutshell: try to use international or “offshore” English. This is essentially a more straightforward form of English without double negatives such as “not too bad” or “I don’t mind”. It is much clearer if you say things directly. “I’m very well” or “Please will you decide “ are much more to the point.
- Avoid business speak. It’s really clever using all those acronyms that other people cannot understand, isn’t it? No, actually it’s boring. And when you are talking to overseas nationals it’s even more ridiculous to use jargon. Just leave it out. Otherwise you will lose their interest PDQ and they will walk away from you ASAP.
- Writing can be a lot easier than speaking. At least when you are writing it is possible to re-read everything to check that it is unambiguous and as specific as possible before you press the “send” button. Using bullet points may help you to be more concise.
- Beware of using jokes. Not only do they not translate very well into another person’s language and culture but they can also make you appear frivolous if you use them in “formal” situations. It’s fine to share your sense of humour with non-native speakers in other ways but make sure you choose the right moment.
- Above all show respect and be prepared to listen. You may have to adjust your speed to match theirs. Be patient and tolerant. Listen at least as much as you speak. Respect your foreign contact and never cause them embarrassment or “loss of face”.
© 2006 Transglobal Languages Limited
We have also prepared a one-page article in pdf format about UK Trade & Investment’s Export Communications Review (ECR) scheme which helps companies to overcome language and cultural barriers. The article, written originally by Jonathan Smith for Croner’s Trade International Digest, explains how ECR:
- offers companies an in-depth review of the way they converse with overseas customers
- provides unbiased advice and practical solutions to immediate problems of communication
- makes specific recommendations about developing skills, resources and procedures for improved communications
- is available to eligible companies with a generous subsidy from UK Trade & Investment
If you would like a FREE copy of the article please complete your details below and we will send it to you as an e-mail attachment.
Or you can ask Jonathan Smith by contacting him now……
Tel: +44 (0) 161 927 7588
E-mail: jonathan@ecrconsultants.org
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