Tip 3 Less is more
Don’t worry about impressing your co-workers with your extensive vocabulary. If you are talking in a meeting, keep it simple.
Sometimes we see our students get into trouble when they try to complicate things with big words and run-on sentences. Stick to the facts and you won’t get tongue-tied. This is one of the biggest secrets of how to improve professional English speaking skills.
Remember, in business time is money! Don’t be afraid to keep it short and to the point.
Tip 4 Nervous before a meeting? Say something first!
Anxiety is totally normal and even more common in the workplace:) I know it feels crazy, but think of anxiety (or stress) as your body’s way of telling you “Hey, it’s time to wake up. Focus!” However, too much of stress can be a problem. And we know that the pressure can affect the way you speak English.
Have you ever felt stressed out at the beginning of a meeting? Do you feel butterflies in your stomach as soon as you sit down in the conference room? Try this trick to control your stress. Try to be the first person to say something. Even if it’s just asking someone how they’re doing. Hearing your own voice will calm your nerves and remind you “yes, I can do this. I can speak English at work.” Give it a try.
Tip 5 It’s all in your head
Many of our students speak English just fine. They know the basic rules of grammar and have decent vocabulary. Some may have accents, but their pronunciation is satisfactory for the most part. However, when they are in the spotlight, they freeze. They start to doubt themselves. They worry about what others think. That fear can be paralyzing.
I know it’s easier said than done, but ask yourself: “Do you really think your co-workers want to see you fail? Are you less of a professional because English isn’t your first language?” The answers to these questions should be an emphatic “NO!” Your co-workers want you to succeed. They are on your team. And English isn’t your first language, but hey… you know two languages! Finally, ask yourself “Can I speak English without stress at work?” Of course you can. Reframe those negative thoughts. Believe in yourself and you’ll have an easier time with English at work.
Bonus tip: Practice with an expert
I hope you enjoyed our article about how to improve your business English skills. Want to practice using some of these strategies with an expert teacher? If you get used to speaking on your online classes, you’ll be more confident at work. After just a few classes you’ll begin anticipating your mistakes and feeling good speaking English.
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