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What are some effective ways to communicate with team members who speak different languages?

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Communication is a key skill for engineering managers, especially when leading diverse and global teams. However, language barriers can pose significant challenges for effective collaboration, coordination, and feedback. How can you communicate with team members who speak different languages without compromising quality, clarity, and trust? Here are some tips to help you overcome the linguistic hurdles and foster a productive and inclusive team culture.

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Amr Mohamed Ahmed

Engineering Manger | Master of Engineering Management at University of Khartoum
John A.

Senior Software Engineer
Abbas Alizadeh

Tractor Parts Chief Expert (ITMCo./STPCo. )

1 Choose a common language

One of the first steps to communicate with team members who speak different languages is to agree on a common language that everyone can use for work-related purposes. Ideally, this should be a language that most team members are comfortable with and have some proficiency in. You may also consider the availability of resources, such as translators, interpreters, or tools, that can help you use the common language effectively. However, choosing a common language does not mean that you should ignore or discourage the use of other languages in your team. You should respect and appreciate the linguistic diversity of your team and encourage team members to learn from each other.

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Amr Mohamed Ahmed

Engineering Manger | Master of Engineering Management at University of Khartoum
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The challenge raise here if there is no common language , one time we had to work with Turkish team in new machines and Crane installation who they don’t speak any common language with us , so we use online translation tools,that Online translation tools can be effective in bridging language barriers by offering quick and accessible translations across various languages. ( there is many of it right now you need to find which one work best for you ) Using these effective features and aspects of online translation tools can significantly improve their efficiency in breaking down language barriers within a team.

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John A.

Senior Software Engineer
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A team with members who speak different languages can be challenging, but it's crucial for effective collaboration to find a common language. Identify the languages spoken by each team member and their proficiency in those languages. Determine if there's a language that the majority of the team is comfortable with, or if there's a common second language that many team members speak.Leverage translation tools for written communication. Online tools and platforms can help translate written content, making it accessible to team members who may not be fluent in the chosen common language.

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Abbas Alizadeh

Tractor Parts Chief Expert (ITMCo./STPCo. )
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One of my experiences is to speak slowly to the audience. And that he may repeat your sentences, in this case you should be patient and confirm the correctness of the sentences.

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Muhammad Hassan Khan

Mechanical Maintenance, Integrity and Corrosion Engineer | Independent Project Management Consultant | Digital Marketeer |
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Facing such situations frequently, here's what I'd add: - Finding common language which is mostly English - Understanding the diversity of languages among team members. There can be a whole team of Turks working with few Pakistanis. In that case, a team member can be hired who speaks Turkish as well as English. - The above mentioned solution brings us a hiring criteria in this situation which is language proficiency. - In critical areas of work like confined space, lift operations etc, usage of signs and hand signals is already the norm. Refreshers can be given to team members time to time. - Being a polyglot myself, I find languages beautiful and would be open to learn the language of my teammates and get introduced to their culture.

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2 Use simple and clear language

Another tip to communicate with team members who speak different languages is to use simple and clear language that avoids ambiguity, jargon, or slang. You should aim to convey your message in a concise and direct way, using short sentences, active voice, and simple words. You should also avoid using idioms, metaphors, or humor that may not translate well or cause confusion. You should also check your spelling, grammar, and punctuation to ensure that your communication is accurate and professional. Additionally, you should use visual aids, such as diagrams, charts, or screenshots, to supplement your verbal or written communication and enhance your understanding.

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John A.

Senior Software Engineer
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The use of simple words cannot be over flogged, complex vocabulary, jargon or jokes should be avoided till communication barrier has been properly explored. Opt for straightforward expressions that convey your message clearly. Repeat key information to reinforce understanding. Repetition will help solidify important details and makes it easier for everyone to grasp the content. Use Translation Tools.If necessary, leverage translation tools for written communication. These tools can help team members understand messages in their native language, reducing language barriers. Be Patient and Understanding. Recognize that language differences may lead to slower communication at times.

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3 Confirm understanding and feedback

A third tip to communicate with team members who speak different languages is to confirm understanding and feedback regularly. You should not assume that your team members have understood your communication or instructions correctly, or that you have understood theirs. You should ask for confirmation, clarification, or repetition whenever necessary, and use paraphrasing, summarizing, or repeating to check your comprehension. You should also provide constructive and timely feedback to your team members, and invite them to share their opinions, questions, or concerns. You should also acknowledge and appreciate their efforts and achievements, and express your gratitude and support.

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John A.

Senior Software Engineer
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Remember, creating an environment where team members feel comfortable confirming their understanding and providing feedback is an ongoing process. Regularly check in on these practices and adapt them based on the evolving needs of the team. Implement a Buddy System, Pair team members who speak the same language or have similar language backgrounds to check in with each other to confirm understanding and provide mutual support. Leverage communication tools for quick feedback, such as chat or messaging apps. Encourage team members to share their thoughts and ask questions through these platforms. Make it clear that everyone's input, especially feedback on communication, is important for the team's success.

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4 Use appropriate communication channels and tools

A fourth tip to communicate with team members who speak different languages is to use appropriate communication channels and tools that suit your purpose, audience, and context. You should consider the advantages and disadvantages of various communication modes, such as email, phone, video call, chat, or document sharing, and choose the one that best fits your communication needs and preferences. You should also consider the time zones, availability, and preferences of your team members, and schedule your communication accordingly. Moreover, you should use communication tools that can facilitate your multilingual communication, such as translation software, dictionaries, or subtitles.

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Greg Van Bemden

VP of Engineering at Aerosonic, a TransDigm Company
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PowerPoint is a great tool for multilingual communication. A simplified slide deck of the topic or issue with visuals and key points helps bridge the communication gap, and vastly reduces the time needed to ensure the message is understood. A best practice is to provide the presentation a day before the meeting, so the multilingual recipient can digest the content and be prepared with questions during the discussion.

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John A.

Senior Software Engineer
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Incorporate symbols and icons into your communication tools. Visual elements can convey messages and instructions, making them more universally understood. Symbols and icons are often universally understood, transcending language differences. They can convey concepts and instructions without relying on specific words. Icons can simplify complex information and make it more concise. This is particularly helpful when conveying instructions, warnings, or key points without the need for lengthy explanations.

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5 Be respectful and empathetic

A fifth tip to communicate with team members who speak different languages is to be respectful and empathetic of their linguistic and cultural backgrounds, challenges, and needs. You should avoid making assumptions, judgments, or stereotypes based on their language skills or accents, and recognize that language proficiency does not reflect intelligence, competence, or value. You should also be patient, tolerant, and flexible when dealing with communication difficulties or misunderstandings, and avoid blaming or criticizing your team members for their language errors or limitations. Furthermore, you should be curious, open-minded, and willing to learn from your team members, and celebrate their linguistic and cultural diversity.

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6 Encourage learning and improvement

A sixth tip to communicate with team members who speak different languages is to encourage learning and improvement of your own and your team's language skills and communication strategies. You should seek feedback from your team members on how you can improve your communication with them, and act on their suggestions. You should also provide opportunities and resources for your team members to improve their language skills and communication techniques, such as online courses, books, podcasts, or mentors. You should also create a safe and supportive environment for your team members to practice and experiment with their language use, and reward their progress and achievements.

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7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?

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What are some effective ways to communicate with team members who speak different languages?

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

1 Choose a common language

2 Use simple and clear language

3 Confirm understanding and feedback

4 Use appropriate communication channels and tools

5 Be respectful and empathetic

6 Encourage learning and improvement

7 Here’s what else to consider

Engineering Management

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What are some effective ways to communicate with team members who speak different languages?

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

1 Choose a common language

2 Use simple and clear language

3 Confirm understanding and feedback

4 Use appropriate communication channels and tools

5 Be respectful and empathetic

6 Encourage learning and improvement

7 Here’s what else to consider

Engineering Management

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