Be extra attentive to feedback that signals your

Be extra attentive to feedback that signals your listener
does not understand your message
Don’t wait for your listener to ask for
explanations

element do don’t
Listening
style
Listen patiently; you’ll eventually catch on to the
rhythms of an accent
Don’t correct the grammar or pronunciatio
of a nonnative speaker
ESSENTIAL ELEMENTS
1. Keep your messages simple
When speaking with people whose native language is different from yours, remember
that they are managing two tasks at the same time. First, they are listening to and
processing the language that you are speaking, which is not their native tongue.
Second, they are trying to understand the message that you are communicating. You
can help your listeners by keeping your messages simple and direct. Discuss one topic
at a time and be sure your message is understood before changing topics.
2. Speak slowly and clearly
Although many people from other cultures speak and understand English, they might be
accustomed to hearing it spoken with an accent different from yours. Help your listener
by reducing your rate of speech, pausing occasionally, and articulating your words.
Speak loudly enough to be heard easily.
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Don’t speak too loudly or slowly, however, or you risk offending your listener.
3. Watch for signs of understanding
Many cultures consider it impolite to interrupt a speaker or ask someone to repeat what
they’ve said. Instead, your listener might patiently listen without understanding as you
speak. Look for expressions that indicate a lack of comprehension, such as a blank
stare, forced smile, or confused looks. See Figure 1-11 . Slow down, simplify your
speech, and repeat your message.
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Maintain eye contact when conversing with a nonnative speaker.
FIGURE 1-11:
Watch for signs of misunderstanding
Hemera Technologies/Photos.com

Jacob Wackerhausen/Photos.com
4. Listen carefully and uncritically
Show respect for others by listening attentively when they speak. Don’t correct the
grammar or pronunciation of nonnative speakers unless they ask for a correction. Avoid
completing sentences or suggesting a word when they pause. Instead, provide positive
nonverbal feedback such as nodding your head and smiling. If you don’t understand
what others are saying, wait until they are finished, and then ask questions about the
topic rather than requesting that they repeat their words.
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Concentrate to understand what the speaker is saying and adjust to his or her pronunciation and
accent.
5. Avoid clichés and idioms

A cliché is an expression that has been so overused, it communicates little information.
An idiom is an expression that means something other than its literal meaning. People
often use clichés and idioms as fillers in daily conversation. Avoid them when talking
with a nonnative speaker.