How can you improve communication with non-native speakers using digital tools?

Communication is a key skill for any professional, especially in a global and diverse workplace. But how can you communicate effectively with non-native speakers of your language, who may have different levels of proficiency, cultural backgrounds, and expectations? In this article, you will learn how to use digital tools to improve your communication with non-native speakers, and avoid common pitfalls and misunderstandings.

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1 Assess your audience

Before you start communicating with non-native speakers, you need to assess your audience and their needs. What is their level of language proficiency? What is their preferred mode of communication? What is their cultural context and background? How familiar are they with your topic and terminology? These questions will help you tailor your message and choose the most appropriate digital tools for your communication.

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Nauman N.

Senior Specialist GBS Hub Communications adidas
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As someone from India, where diverse languages coexist, I often use digital tools to bridge language barriers, especially with those not fluent in English. Simplifying language, avoiding slang, and speaking slowly helps in verbal interactions. For written communication, I rely on translation apps for accuracy, though they're not always perfect. Visual aids are a great help in overcoming language barriers. I also use video calls with subtitles, which are incredibly useful. Regular feedback from non-native speakers helps me refine my approach. Patience and understanding are key, as effective communication is more about empathy and adapting to linguistic diversity

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2 Choose the right tools

There are many digital tools that can help you communicate with non-native speakers, such as online platforms, video conferencing, chat apps, email, and document sharing. However, not all tools are equally effective for every situation. You need to consider the purpose, the tone, the urgency, and the feedback of your communication. For example, if you want to explain a complex concept, you might use a video conferencing tool with screen sharing and subtitles. If you want to share a brief update, you might use a chat app with emojis and stickers. If you want to collaborate on a document, you might use a document sharing tool with comments and suggestions.

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3 Simplify your language

One of the most important tips for communicating with non-native speakers is to simplify your language. This means using clear, concise, and direct sentences, avoiding jargon, slang, idioms, and acronyms, and checking your grammar and spelling. You can also use digital tools to help you simplify your language, such as online dictionaries, translators, grammar checkers, and readability scores. However, be careful not to oversimplify your language or sound patronizing. You still need to respect your audience's intelligence and professionalism.

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Barbara Marzari

Communication and Engagement Strategy Director, Sociabble | Podcast Host #MastersOfComms | Talks about #InternalComms #EmployeeEngagement # EmployeeAdvocacy
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In enhancing communication with non-native speakers using digital tools, it's essential to recognize that simplifying messages isn't always feasible, especially with complex or technical topics. Instead, a more effective approach is to write messages in a clear, though not overly simplified manner, and then employ an automatic content translation system. This allows every employee to access the content in their native language, ensuring comprehension without compromising the message's complexity or technicality. Such a system bridges language barriers effectively, fostering better understanding and inclusivity in a diverse workplace.

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4 Use visual aids

Another tip for communicating with non-native speakers is to use visual aids to support your verbal or written message. Visual aids can include images, graphs, charts, diagrams, icons, and animations. They can help you illustrate your points, show data, clarify concepts, and engage your audience. You can use digital tools to create and share visual aids, such as online presentation software, graphic design tools, video editing tools, and image hosting sites. However, be careful not to use too many or too complex visual aids that might distract or confuse your audience.

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5 Check for understanding

Finally, you need to check for understanding when you communicate with non-native speakers. This means asking questions, soliciting feedback, summarizing key points, and confirming action steps. You can use digital tools to check for understanding, such as online surveys, polls, quizzes, forms, and feedback platforms. However, be careful not to assume that your audience understands everything you say or write. You need to be open to questions, clarifications, and corrections, and be ready to adjust your communication if needed.

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6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?

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Lori Johnson, MBA, CPHIMS

Marketing & Communications | Change Management | Technology Implementation & Adoption
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Humility and a sense of humor go a long way. Understanding that both parties are genuinely making effort can foster a safe space for connection.

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How can you improve communication with non-native speakers using digital tools?

1

2

3

4

5

6

1 Assess your audience

2 Choose the right tools

3 Simplify your language

4 Use visual aids

5 Check for understanding

6 Here’s what else to consider

Internal Communications

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How can you improve communication with non-native speakers using digital tools?

1

2

3

4

5

6

1 Assess your audience

2 Choose the right tools

3 Simplify your language

4 Use visual aids

5 Check for understanding

6 Here’s what else to consider

Internal Communications

Rate this article

Thanks for your feedback

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