Embracing The Path to Fluency
Gemma Keeling
Helping professionals develop business English fluency and language confidence ? English Language Coaching CEO of the Year UK (2023) Language Tutor of the Year (2024-2025) ??
The next edition of Beyond English Fluency is here.?
For those just joining us, welcome! ??
Beyond English Fluency dives into topics and shares strategies around communication that go beyond language.? Every other Wednesday (twice per month), I share a theme related to communication that goes into depth about one theme, strategy or idea. Whether you are a non-native English speaking professional or consider yourself a native looking to excel in your communication- you’ll find a strategy that you can apply to your own situation.???
Reaching fluency is not a linear path.
In any language.
I recently started Spanish lessons again.?
But I have been asked numerous times "Why continue Spanish classes if you're already fluent?"?
Have you ever been asked this about English? Or faced a similar situation?
This question is a testament to the misconception that fluency equates to mastery.
Fluency doesn't guarantee an exhaustive understanding of a language's intricacies (the small details).
One thing I've come to appreciate through my ongoing learning is the cultural *nuances that shape language usage.??
Nuances are the small details and differences or variations in something. ?
These nuances, often overlooked, play a crucial role in effective communication.
Sure, you can have a fluent level but it isn’t always easy to confidently communicate yourself with international colleagues.?
In English, brevity is often valued.?
For example, it’s common in English to use a lot of acronyms and abbreviations.?
领英推荐
When working in English, concise and clear communication is valued to ensure that messages are understood quickly and efficiently.?
This can include writing concise emails, memos, or reports without unnecessary elaboration.
Yet, in Spanish, generally it is important to give a more in-depth response.
A simple response like "yes, that's interesting" may suffice in English but could unintentionally convey rudeness in Spanish.
While my English brain might consider this to be a perfectly acceptable response, in Spanish, it could seem dismissive or even sarcastic.
You could say that Spanish is a lot more colourful than English.?
But when you are communicating at work in English, it’s likely that you will need to be more concise.
While expressive language can add flair to communication, it's crucial to prioritise.?
Navigating these nuances can be challenging, but it's an essential part of the learning process.?
I’d love to know your thoughts. What is more important in your language, to be precise or brief?
If you're seeking structured guidance and support in your journey, I’d love to support you.?
I have a few spaces available for my signature Thrive in English course.?
In this course, you'll develop your speaking fluency and gain the confidence to communicate effectively in your role, paving the way for potential promotions within your current company or even securing a new position within the next 3 months.
If you would like to learn more send me a message with the word ‘advance’ and we can discuss how I can best support you on your journey.
———
ELIC Coordinator and Lecturer at Oda Bultum university
6 个月Great, thank you for sharing this vital practice!