How To Approach an Employee Who Needs English Training

2008-08-25T11:19:00.013-05:00

A Touchy Subject
Sometimes it can be difficult to find the right way to let employees know that they need Accent Reduction and/or English training. It's a touchy subject. For many of them, suffering from anxiety about their communication problems is something they deal with on a daily basis; a very private matter, as you can probably imagine. Approaching them about the subject could raise a whole host of worrisome questions, the most fearful of all being, "Is my job in jeopardy?"

Employees know if they need English training, right?

Some do. Some don't. Those who do realize they are having communication problems due to their English skills, are sometimes too busy trying to hide the problem or cover it up for fear they might draw negative attention to themselves or worse, lose their job.

How can someone have a problem communicating in English and not realize it?

Experts say that by the age of nine years old, a person loses the ability to distinguish sounds that are different from his/her own language. Even though they are constantly hearing, "I can't understand you," unfortunately, they still may not realize they have a problem.

Occasionally, if a person has grown up with English and has spoken English most of his life, he may feel that the problem is not his, but someone else's. To him I'd say, "all English dialects are not created equal."

Here are several reasons why clear communication is so important:

Clear communication is essential in business.
Communication problems can hold you back from moving further in your career.
Effective communication greatly increases productivity.
Communicating clearly helps reduce frustrations.
Better communication can help improve relationships with co-workers.

(please post a comment if you have a reason to add to this list.)

And here is a script in case you need one...

"We value you as an employee and we would like to offer you every possible advantage to help you move further in your career. We know that communication is an area that may be holding you back. We have a program that we would like to make available to you that would help you work on your English skills so that you could communicate more clearly. This would help you to reduce a lot of frustration. It would help you increase your productivity, be understood on the phone, be understood by your colleagues, have better relationships with your colleagues, and reach your career goals. Your job is not in jeopardy. We just want to help you in every way possible to reach your maximum potential."

(please post a comment if you have another suggestion.)

http://www.theenglishedgeusa.com/

The English Edge USA
222 West Las Colinas Blvd., Suite 1650
The Urban Towers
Irving, Texas 75039
972-501-1499

Learning@TheEnglishEdgeUSA.com

Accent Reduction Training: What is it?

2008-08-23T06:02:00.008-05:00

Q: What is Accent Reduction and how does it work?

Accent Reduction is a general term used for therapy or training meant to modify the accent. There are several different approaches, ranging from techniques used by Speech Pathologists, to other common methods which are becoming more popular with ESL instructors.

Q: I've heard it referred to by several names. Is Accent Reduction the same thing as Pronunciation Training?

Yes and no. The goal of Accent Reduction is to reduce or modify the accent. The goal of Pronunciation Training is to train the student on how to produce the sounds and stress patterns associated with the language they are learning. Accent Reduction therapy is often provided by a speech therapist, whereas Pronunciation Training is more commonly offered by language instructors. Regardless of what you call it, as it pertains to modifying or reducing the foreign accent, they are all just different approaches to the same problem. The ultimate goal is to communicate more clearly, to understand others, and to be understood.

Q: Which method is better?

The one that works for the student!

Q: Can accent reduction training really make a difference?

Absolutely it can, with the right training program. Our clients have enjoyed great results through our programs. With the right level of commitment from the student, combined with an innovative and engaging method that works, it really is possible to modify the accent, without giving up the "native" dialect, and improve communication. Students are easily motivated as they see the results.

Q: How does it work?

The student must learn how to produce new sounds that are often completely "foreign" or unfamiliar. Under close supervision of an experienced trainer or coach, the student practices and develops these new sounds and speech rhythms. Training the ear to listen very carefully, the student learns to emulate the sounds until able produce them accurately. As the student masters combinations, the level of difficulty is gradually raised until the student reaches the final level or plateau of mastery. The length of time is different for each student and depends upon individual learning pace and level of motivation.

Q: How long does it take to see results?

Often, motivated students will begin to see results after just their first lesson. The best results come about through the completion of the program along with plenty of practice and commitment from the student. Training yourself to produce a sound that you can hear perfectly in your head, although doesn't seem to come out of your mouth so easily, requires dedicated practice and a talented coach.

Q: Is Accent Reduction training affordable?
Prices can vary greatly, depending upon where you go and where you live. I would encourage anyone who is considering this type of training to weigh the cost of such a program compared with its benefits. The most important question you can ask yourself is this: "What do I expect to gain?" It is important to be clear on your intention. Are you after a promotion? A better job? A more satisfying lifestyle?

You can also check with your employer to find out if you can be reimbursed for this type of training or perhaps even have it paid for by your company. We are often contacted by Human Resources professionals and and training coordinators who are interested in making this training available to their employees, so don't be afraid to ask!

Q: How does one go about choosing a qualified instructor?

Referrals are the best way to find a quality program. Don't assume that just because you see a wall lined with degrees and diplomas that the instructor will be able to deliver the results you are after. Judging by price is not always the best way to gauge quality either. Look for the one who delivers the results.

Q: What qualities should I look for in an English instructor or coach?
If you are living and working in the United States or anywhere in North America, your instructor's first language should absolutely be American English. Why? All English dialects are not created equally. They are quite different from one another. If you need to modify your accent to communicate and sound more "American," you wouldn't want to study accent training with a British or Australian instructor. Also consider looking for a coach who has lived in a foreign country and understands what it's like to be the foreigner. Understanding cultural differences is a very integral part of this type of training.

Q: Are there any free English classes available in my community?

Occasionally, The English Edge USA makes these programs available at no cost to companies, organizations and churches who are able to meet certain eligibility requirements. There is a waiting list for these programs and only a very limited number are available per year. Companies and organizations who are interested in arranging this training for their group may contact us anytime to find out more.

Q: Are there any free English classes for individuals?

The English Edge USA offers individuals the opportunity to try their first lesson free of charge. The first lesson allows them to begin their pronunciation training, starting with any one of their most troubling American English sounds, so that they can actually begin to see the difference before they make the commitment. The first lesson also gives them a chance to “bond” with their instructor/coach. The instructor/coach also takes this time to begin discussing and developing the student's “goal plan” for the particular areas of life where he or she would like to see changes and new possibilities.

Want to know more? Call, or visit us online...

or schedule a free initial consultation.

http://www.theenglishedgeusa.com/

972-501-1499

The English Edge USA

"We're your patner in success!"

Communication: English and Accent Reduction Training

How To Approach an Employee Who Needs English Training

Accent Reduction Training: What is it?