Communication is becoming increasingly important. In any relationship, communication is essential. However, there may be several linguistic hurdles in the communication process. And it is only through overcoming these obstacles that this communication becomes effective.
Interpersonal communication can go wrong for a variety of reasons. In many cases, the recipient does not necessarily perceive the message in the same manner that the sender intended. As a result, it’s critical that the communicator request feedback to ensure that the message was received correctly.
How to overcome language barriers?
1. Use simple language
Whether you’re communicating a profoundly technical topic to non-technical coworkers or dealing with someone who understands your native language as a secondary, everyone should get into the practice of using simple language and work on improving your languages wherever possible. Many people attempt to make themselves appear knowledgeable or competent at their jobs by using big words, but this does no one any good. Using jargon or complex terminologies simply leads to misunderstandings and makes others feel intimidated about not understanding what you’re saying. It’s critical to establish a corporate culture of speaking plainly and addressing all concerns as clearly as possible.
2. Look for a reliable translator
Enlist the aid of a competent translator or discover a translation service that fits your demands if you’re operating across foreign offices. Every document deemed critical to the company’s overall success should be translated into the primary language of your other locations. When looking for a service, be cautious and make sure to check their credentials. There are numerous free websites that promise to translate text from one language to another, however, they may not take dialects into consideration. Words can also have distinct meanings in different cultures.
3. Make language classes available to your staff
If you work in a highly technical setting, include a crash course in your lingo as part of your first job training, and consider continuing education seminars afterwards. Sales representatives must know the ins and outs of whatever product they are selling, marketers must know why their products are essential, and everyone must be able to communicate in a common language in order to plan for the company’s future.
If you work for a multinational corporation, provide complementary language classes in another location.
4. Dissect cultural differences
Workplace conflicts can arise as a result of cultural differences. Even minor concerns that you may not notice can lead to significant conflicts between people if they are not handled.
It’s a good idea to educate your staff about potential cultural differences.
Miscommunication about cultural differences can lead to conflict if others erroneously assume someone is being unpleasant on purpose. That isn’t always the case, and it’s a matter of cultural misunderstanding.
Early detection of these problems may save time and money in the long term, as well as provide a more pleasant working atmosphere.
5. Make use of visual communication strategies
Words frequently fail us, and when they do, demonstrating rather than explaining may be far more successful. To clarify difficult topics, use drawings or diagrams. Visual cues are extremely useful for keeping everyone on the same page, as well as for thinking more imaginatively about new ideas.
The gestures that Americans consider to be impolite may be vastly different from those that people in other nations consider being impolite. For example, in the United States, ordinary gestures may be considered disrespectful in Japan, and vice versa.
6. Train a thing about gestures
Also, educate your workers on this. Many of us don’t consider using hand gestures, which can result in significant hurt feelings.
7. Make use of repetition
Whether or not there is a language barrier, individuals typically need to hear something more than once in order to grasp and retain it. Expect no one to remember something you said a long time ago. Make it a regular component of your conversation if it’s necessary.
8. Respect each other
Language difficulties, like other communication hurdles, may be aggravating. They need patience, understanding, and vigilance. When you or your team is having difficulty communicating, never raise your voice or over-enunciate. Slower is preferable to louder and plainly is preferable to forcibly. And keep in mind that a language barrier has nothing to do with a person’s ability to comprehend the notion behind what you’re attempting to communicate. As you look for common ground, continue to speak right English so that others may learn to comprehend correctly as well.
Conclusion
Working with individuals from diverse cultures and origins might be difficult, but it is what promotes innovation, creativity, and success. Don’t allow language limitations to prevent you from taking advantage of everything that a diverse workplace has to offer.
