Overcoming the language barrier

“I worry my English isn’t good enough for presentations.

What if I forget what I want to say? What if I can’t think of the right word?”

I’ve heard this many times from clients.

When you’re presenting complex information AND crossing the language barrier, those nerves are amplified:

It’s OK. I’ve been there too.

Happily, the 3 Ps are at hand:

1. Keep things in perspective

Remind yourself the language you’re speaking is merely a tool for getting your message across.

Nothing more, nothing less.

What’s important is the power of connection.

If you have a clear message and are totally connected with your content, you’ll connect with your audience – whether your English is fluent or not.

2. Prepare well

If you give yourself the time you need to think, plan and prepare, you’ll know what you want to say.

Key words clear. Pronunciation checked.

And you’ll be ready to go with the English version. 

3. Practice, Practice, Practice

The best way to reduce those presentation butterflies is to practice.

Just as you’d rehearse for a role in a play.

Practice as many times as you need until you’re totally comfortable with what you’re going to say.

When you’re practicing you will forget what you want to say.

And you won’t find every word you need in English.

But you will find solutions.

So that when you make your presentation, you know you can do it.

So, next time you’re doubting your English capacities, remember the 3 Ps:

Perspective, Preparation, and Practice.

Photo by Raúl Nájera on Unsplash