Traveling to nations where English is spoken supposedly relieves the pressure of having to learn another language. I have become aware, however, of communication difficulties among English speakers in different cultures and am sharing a few tips I have learned in my travels. If you do travel, you might incur the same issues. However, even in you live in an English speaking country, it is very probable that you will encounter others who have learned English as an additional language.
Although English is so widespread, communication problems do exist between English speakers of different nations. Often what one intends to communicate is lost in the language itself. Why do these problems exist? What can you do about it?
Be aware of the possibility of misunderstanding. Watch the person you are speaking with closely for body language that communicates he did not fully understand what you had to say. When that happens, rephrase your comment.
Do not use idioms. Although a dictionary exists which tries to explain idioms used in American, British and Australian English, avoid idioms altogether.
Stay away from jokes. It is a rare joke that is understood by all cultures. Humor can be effectively used without telling a joke.
Never insult your listener. Resist the temptation to say something like, "I just used simple English." If you had really used simple English, you probably would not have been misunderstood. So, a good rule is to simplify, simplify, simplify.
Take special care if you are teaching or speaking to a group. Often your attendees are a mixture of native English speakers as well as those who have learned English as an additional language. If you have been sensitive in preparing your speech, everyone should be able to benefit from what you have to say. You don't want anyone to spend time trying to figure out what you meant by a certain comment at the beginning of your speech, thus ensuring that the rest of the speech was a loss.
Keep cultural references to a minimum. It can be offensive to others when all of your examples are from your own culture. Personal examples can be effective, however, such as "As a father, I have found that my children watch my every move. This makes me think twice about the kind of leader I am at home and in the business world." Your example can then be very specific.
Even personal examples, however, have their limitations. For instance, if you are speaking to a group in a poor, depressed country, making references about the difficulties of finding what you want while you are shopping not only does not make sense to your audience, it points out the differences between your cultures. They may not have the ability to buy basic things, much less shop around for "just the right thing."
Enjoy the experience. People of different cultures can learn much from each other. Being able to speak the same language is a huge plus, but consideration and humility should always be present in the conversations. If you are truly interested in communicating, your listener will know it and you will be encouraged to return.
Stephanie and her husband, Richard, serve the Lord through Xtend Ministries International. To find out more about Stephanie and her ministry, please visit http://www.onefocusministries.com/.
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