How to tackle meetings in English : 10 tips

Participating in meetings can sometimes be stressful, even scary, but doing so in a language which is not your native tongue, can be extremely daunting. There are, however, techniques which can help you feel more confident to speak, even if you don't feel your English is adequate. So look at the tips below and try and put them into practice next time you are faced with having to speak English in a meeting.

 1. Prepare in advance 
Review the agenda, research key topics, and prepare key phrases or vocabulary related to the discussion. This will give you a solid foundation and help you anticipate what might come up during the meeting.
 
2. Keep it simple
Use simple and clear language when expressing your ideas. Shorter sentences are often easier to understand and help avoid miscommunication. Focus on getting your point across rather than using complex vocabulary.
 
3. Practice key phrases
Familiarize yourself with common phrases used in meetings, such as:
   - “I’d like to suggest…”
   - “Can you clarify something?”
   - “In my opinion…”
   - “What do you think about…?”
Practicing these phrases can help you feel more comfortable speaking up during the discussion.
 
 4. Speak slowly and clearly
Speaking too fast can make it harder for others to understand you. It can also make you and others feel more nervous. Slow down your speech, focus on pronunciation, and take your time to articulate your thoughts. Hesitation and saying um and er is natural behaviour when talking with others.
 
5. Use active listening
Show that you are listening by nodding or using small verbal cues like “I see” or “That’s right.” Active listening shows engagement and gives you time to understand the conversation better, which helps when it’s your turn to speak.

6. Ask for clarification when needed 
If you don’t understand something, don’t hesitate to ask for clarification. Phrases like “Could you please repeat that?” or “I’m not sure I understood, could you explain it again?” are helpful to ensure you are following the discussion correctly.
 
7. Take notes
Taking notes can help you keep track of the conversation, especially when multiple people are speaking. It can also serve as a reference if you need to contribute later or follow up on specific points.
 
8. Focus on nonverbal cues
Pay attention to body language, facial expressions, and gestures during the meeting. These can give you additional context and help you interpret the tone of the conversation. Use your own nonverbal cues, like eye contact and gestures, to emphasize your points.
 
9. Practice summarizing your points
When it’s your turn to speak, try to summarize your thoughts in a few key points. This can help you stay on track and ensure that your message is clear to everyone. For example, start with, “There are three main points I’d like to discuss…”
 
10. Be patient with yourself
It’s normal to feel nervous when communicating in a second language, especially in formal settings like meetings. Remember that most people are understanding and appreciate your effort to communicate. Take a deep breath, be patient with yourself, and focus on your progress over time.