What kinds of verbal strategies can you use to clearly and precisely communicate your messages to people from cultures who don't share your language?

Answer 1

There are three key aspects to effective communication,

1. the words you use,
2. the ideas/messages/concepts you want convey to the other person's mind, and
3. knowing your audience.

Knowing your audience will create in you a deep respect for their culture and cherished beliefs.

These three factors influence and shape the verbal strategies we use in communication; making your presentation more meaningful to your particular audience.

WORDS

For communication to be effective, words must be well chosen, clearly spoken and arranged in logical order. When speaking to audiences whose first language is not the same as your own you must ensure that your vocabulary is restricted to using only words that are within the easy grasp of your listeners.

Sentences will need to be shorter than you would normally use in everyday conversation with a someone of your own language.

Complex ideas must be expressed in simple terms. And invariably you will need to speak a little slower. Slightly more time, and longer pauses, may be necessary to allow them opportunity to 'translate', absorb and reflect upon what you are saying. But long silences should be avoided. (Their minds will wander!)

So maintain a reasonable pace, with changes in pitch, tempo and volume at times, as we do in everyday conversation. This will keep the lecture natural, lively, and interesting.

With some important words make good use a range of synonyms. Using alternative words and putting things in different ways will help your listeners to appreciate the points you are making from different angles. They will then get a more rounded picture/idea of the matter under consideration. Using synonyms will also cover the possibility that some in your audience may not know all the words you use, but they may be familiar with at least one of the alternative expressions you have decided to include.

Continually scan your audience for visual signs that they are understanding and following your line of reasoning. If necessary you can then adapt your presentation and verbal style to more appropriately fit your audience. Keep them with you!

IDEAS/CONCEPTS/MESSAGES

You must have, and keep, a clear objective in mind. This is essential in preparation, fact-gathering, writing-up your talk notes, and while giving your presentation. If you can't or don't get the whole matter clear in your mind, how can you expect your audience to do so!

Complex ideas must be communicated in simple logical steps, with scheduled summary/review points.

Make good use of illustrations, visual and verbal, but make sure that your 'word-pictures' will be readily understood by all in your audience, i.e. refer to matters of everyday life, things that would be familiar to them, things they will be able to relate to. Then they will automatically form an emotional attachment to the words and ideas you have been communicating to them. The next important stage is to link the illustration to the point you want to make or wish to emphasise. This way they will be able to understand and appreciate the value of the point(s) you are making, and be able to make practical application of the information you are presenting.

KNOW YOUR AUDIENCE

Nothing alienates an audience more than disrespect, through ignorance or by accident, shown by someone who is speaking to them. It is therefore vital that, well before your talk, you learn something about their culture. And get some idea of them as individuals, what they actually know and believe. The more you know about your audience the more you will understand and appreciate their position! And your interest in, and evident care for their concerns and values, will deeply affect your manner of approach, influencing the words you select and verbal styles you use when speaking with them.

SUMMARY

• Identify your objective and keep it clear in mind.
• Know your audience.
• Prepare and deliver accordingly, modifying as you speak if necessary

CAREFUL ATTENTION to these important features of public speaking and the detailed suggestions given above will help you to develop appropriate verbal strategies that will significantly enhance your ability to communicate effectively with all sorts of audiences, but especially with those of people who have a different culture and native language to your own.

Answer 2

When communicating with people from different cultures who don't share your language, it is helpful to use simple and clear language, avoid slang and idioms, and speak at a moderate pace. Using visual aids, gestures, and body language can also enhance understanding and create a more inclusive communication environment. Additionally, asking questions to ensure comprehension and being open to feedback can help bridge any potential language barriers.