Speak Better, Faster: How Learning from Fluent Friends Can Transform Your Communication Skills

Welcome to the fourth edition of my Newsletter.

Improving speaking skills through befriending someone who speaks well is a highly effective strategy.

When we surround ourselves with individuals who excel in spoken communication, we naturally absorb their language patterns, intonation, and vocabulary.

This aligns with James Clear’s concept from “Atomic Habits,” emphasizing the importance of immersing oneself in an environment where the desired behaviour is prevalent.

It’s challenging to find someone proficient in the target language who’s also willing to assist you. However, believe me, if you’re truly passionate about reaching your goals, you’ll surely encounter someone who fits both criteria. It could be your classmate, subordinate, colleague, relative or a friend.

So, what you need to do if you find the above said one:

1. Seek opportunities to engage in conversations on a regular basis.
2. Listen actively to the speech patterns and expressions used by him or her during conversations. Pay attention to intonation and rhythm to better understand natural language flow. Observing how a fluent speaker articulates his/her thoughts helps you internalize effective communication techniques.
3. Practice mimicking the speech patterns and intonation when you are alone. It will help improve your pronunciation and fluency.
4. Pay attention to the words used by your friend. Use these words in your conversations to gradually enhance your speaking skills.
5. Seek feedback on your speaking skills and areas for improvement. Accept and welcome feedback/suggestions in a positive and open-minded manner, and use them to refine your pronunciation, grammar, and overall communication style.
6. If you and your friend are comfortable, engage in role-playing scenarios with your friend to simulate real-life conversations.

Benefits of befriending proficient speakers

Befriending proficient speakers offers several benefits for language learners:

Firstly, it provides exposure to natural conversation patterns, colloquial expressions, and pronunciation nuances that textbooks may not cover.

Secondly, engaging in regular conversations with proficient speakers allows learners to observe and internalize these linguistic elements, enhancing their speaking fluency.

Thirdly, interacting with a proficient speaker encourages active participation in discussions and fosters confidence in expressing ideas verbally. You are more likely to engage in meaningful conversations and practice speaking spontaneously when surrounded by supportive individuals who model effective communication.

Use of Technology

Incorporating technology can enhance the effectiveness of this approach. You can utilize language learning apps, online forums, or virtual language exchange platforms to connect with proficient speakers globally.

These platforms offer opportunities for structured language practice, interactive exercises, and personalized feedback from native speakers.

By actively engaging with proficient speakers and incorporating these strategies into your language learning routine, you can significantly improve your speaking skills and become more confident and proficient communicators in the target language.

Have a great Sunday…See you in May!

Dr Manjusha Susan George