The Art of Taking Control in Your Business Meetings
Navigating business meetings with native speakers is a reality in today’s global world. Whether face-to-face, by video, or in more casual settings, non-native speakers often face the same challenges. Cultural etiquette, worrying about the quality of English, and fear of making embarrassing mistakes or not understanding the conversation are common concerns. However, there are strategies to help you take control and excel in these meetings.
Setting the Stage
Before the meeting begins, it’s crucial to remind everyone that not all participants are native English speakers. You can say, “Good morning. A gentle reminder: please remember that not all of us speak English as our native language. To avoid time lost from having to repeat or correct misunderstandings, please speak slowly and clearly. Thank you.”
This might seem bold, but it’s vital for the meeting’s success. Native speakers will understand and usually comply, though you might need to remind them occasionally throughout the meeting.
Enhancing Listening and Comprehension
Many non-native speakers worry about their listening and comprehension skills. Often, this worry, rather than actual skill level, blocks effective listening. Focus entirely on the subject at hand. Remember, you’re in the meeting because of your professional skills and knowledge. By concentrating on the topic, you’ll find that understanding the discussion becomes natural rather than forced.
Commanding the Meeting
When you have something to contribute, take command of the meeting. Start by pausing to collect your thoughts. Then, speak slowly, using simple and familiar vocabulary and short sentences. This deliberate speaking style will command attention and ensure everyone understands your contribution. This technique requires practice, but once mastered, it changes the tone of the meeting, engaging participants and slowing the pace to a level where everyone can follow.
Don’t let others pressure you to speak quickly. Maintain control and ensure your points are clear and deliberate.
Clarity and Sincerity
When contributing or answering questions, speak plainly. Avoid jargon, acronyms, and unnecessary expressions. Say exactly what you mean and mean what you say. Clear and sincere communication captures attention and fosters understanding. Keep your statements short and to the point, ensuring your information is understood and believable.
If there’s a disagreement, remain calm and in command. Argue your point or accept the other opinion without letting emotions overpower your skills.
Avoid Emulating Native Speakers
Native speakers often use bad grammar, slang, and expressions that only other native speakers understand. Don’t try to emulate or copy their fast-speaking style. Keep your speaking speed comfortable for you, not for them. Speak slowly, simply, and with short sentences, avoiding unnecessary words and expressions. Your goal is to ensure your information, opinion, facts, or ideas are clearly stated and understood.
Conclusion
Meetings with native speakers can be challenging, but focusing on your knowledge and the meeting’s agenda rather than your language skills can make a significant difference. Confidence in your abilities is key. It takes time to overcome these issues, but concentrating on the content rather than worrying about your listening skills or the speed of others’ speech can help everything fall into place.
This approach works. I’ve seen it with hundreds of students. When they discuss topics they’re passionate about, they quickly become immersed in the conversation, often forgetting they’re speaking in English. Trust in your abilities, focus on what you know, and let your confidence shine through.
