ESL Speakers: What's keeping you from voicing your opinion?

MESA, Ariz. - March 31, 2013 - PRLog -- Does this sound like you? Do you have great ideas but lack the confidence to express those ideas?

This is a very common problem among non-native English speakers especially in settings with native speakers. The unfortunate part about this situation is that in most cases - everyone loses! You lose out because you miss opportunities to show that you are an asset to the organization and your team loses out because they aren’t getting the valuable input and ideas you have to share.

But how do you overcome this fear? Here are 3 tips that will help...

Think to yourself, What’s the worst that could happen? Is the worst case scenario really that bad? Then think to yourself, In what ways could I benefit from voicing my ideas? More often than not the risk is worth the reward.  
I have a quote posted on my office wall that says, “Mistakes are proof you are trying”. Honestly, it makes me feel better and gives me more confidence because without a doubt, I will make mistakes - especially if I’m continually trying to push myself out of my comfort zone. Having that same attitude can take away some of the pressure to be perfect and help you give it a try!
Practice, Practice, Practice! How much more confident do you think a basketball players feels in a big game when he/she has been to practice, gone through the drills, and worked hard to prepare? Some ideas: Practice out loud when you are alone or start by speaking up more within a smaller, more comfortable group. Challenge yourself to add just one comment to your next meeting then build from there.

Another fantastic way to overcome your fears and gain confidence when speaking with native English speakers is to enroll in our 12-week online English Pronunciation & Fluency Course (at http://www.pronunciationpro.com). Every one of my students expresses to me how much more confident they feel after only just a few weeks of our 12-week course.

Why? Because it puts the power in your hands. When you speak up in meetings you will know th
at your listeners will understand you. Through the 12-week course you will get feedback from our American trainers so you know if you are saying things correctly or not. And going back to tip #3 - you will have the opportunity to PRACTICE with a trainer that knows exactly how to help you express yourself clearly.

Our goal at Pronunciation Pro is to give you the skills you need to feel confident in whatever speaking situation you find yourself.

We’d love to connect with you and let you know what we’re up to here at Pronunciation Pro.

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"Doctors without accents attract more patients in the United States" and
"American English Dictionary: Why you need one when learning American English Pronunciation"

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Wishing you more confidence,

Annie Ruden M.S. CCC-SLP
English Pronunciation Trainer
annie@pronunciationpro.com