?? The Hidden Power of Speaking 'Imperfect' English

"Your microphone is muted..."

It's 9 AM on a Monday in January. Your first monthly check-in of the year with your new boss. Your goals for 2025 are ambitious - this is YOUR year to move up.

As you finally unmute yourself, you feel that familiar knot in your stomach. Not because you're unprepared (you've got this), but because you're about to present your strategic vision in English... your second language... to a boss whose own non-native English accent sometimes throws you off.

Sound familiar?

Welcome to the reality of global business in 2025, where the "perfect English" myth is finally starting to crack.

The Great Corporate Language Myth

Here's something nobody talks about: in most multinational companies today, meetings are full of people speaking their second, third, or even fourth language. That "perfect native English" we were all told to aim for? It's becoming as outdated as mandatory suits in the office.

And here's the data that will blow your mind: while there are roughly 400 million native English speakers globally, they're vastly outnumbered by the more than 1 billion non-native speakers. Think about that for a second:

In today's global business world, you're far more likely to be speaking English with someone who learned it as a second language.

This creates interesting situations.

And that's when it hit me: we've been looking at this all wrong.

The Zoom Reality Check

Think about your last international meeting. How many native English speakers were actually there? Chances are you're often in meetings where everyone is speaking their second language. Some with stronger accents, some with perfect grammar but rigid delivery, others with creative grammar but fantastic storytelling ability.

Here's what's fascinating: The most impactful people in these calls aren't usually the ones with the best English. They're the ones who:

• Focus on clarity over perfection
• Use simple, powerful words instead of complex corporate jargon
• Connect with their audience despite (or because of) their unique way of speaking

Your "non-native" perspective is actually a superpower

Here's why:

1. You naturally simplify complex ideas (because you have to)
2. You're more aware of potential misunderstandings (so you check for comprehension more often)
3. You listen more carefully than native speakers (because you've had to develop this skill)
4. You can connect with other non-native speakers (who make up the majority of the business world)

The 2025 Reality

Remote work made everyone realize something: we waste too much time trying to sound "perfect" when we should be focusing on being clear, engaging and impactful.

The most successful global leaders I work with focus far more—much more—on building connections across cultural and linguistic boundaries and being sensitive to their audience's culture than on perfecting their English skills. They ensure their message is clear, memorable, and leaves a lasting impression.

Think This Before Your Next Zoom Meeting

So here's what I want you to think about: What if your "non-native" English isn't a weakness, but actually your ticket to standing out in 2025?

What if, instead of apologizing for your accent, you used it to make your messages more memorable?

What if the key to advancing your career isn't speaking perfect English, but using your unique perspective to bring fresh ideas to the table?

Remember: In a world where everyone in your Zoom grid is trying to sound the same, your authentic voice - accent and all - might be exactly what sets you apart.

The future belongs to leaders who can navigate this beautiful mess of global communication. And maybe, just maybe, your "imperfect" English is exactly what makes you perfect for that role.

Use it wisely. ??

Want to learn how to turn your unique communication style into your greatest leadership asset?

?? Stay tuned for my next #HappyMonday: 'Unstoppable: The 4 Hidden Secrets Behind Mastering International Communication'

?? Or DM me to find out how we can help you boost your confidence, clarity, and impact in your next international meeting!