Communication Best Practices in a Multilingual Workplace

This is your HR news flash for the week of December 14, 2020, your briefing on talent management and the world of work from HRCI. In 2019, individuals born outside the United States constituted 17.4% of the total civilian workforce, up from 13.3% in 2000. This increasingly diverse workforce could offer some challenges regarding communication. As our workforce is increasingly becoming multilingual, we have to learn how to support non-English speakers. Recently, Micah Bellieu, CEO and Founder of Fluency Corp, joined our Alchemizing HR webinar series to discuss how businesses can support non-English speakers in a multilingual environment. Here are a few suggested practices. First, speak purposefully. When spoken quickly, it is more difficult for non-English speakers to process and participate in the conversation. It is recommended to speak slowly and purposefully. Also, check for comprehension and engage in a two-way conversation. This will ensure your presentation does not lose any value. Second, encourage engagement. Make sure to pause and solicit clarifying questions. Ask specific follow-up questions or use statements such as, “I would like to hear your concerns.” Additionally, if your meetings are virtual, try to use video so listeners can also see you. Visual cues are enormously helpful for non-English speakers. Finally, offer continuous support. Your work environment and culture will have an impact on non-English speakers and might cause isolation. Consider implementing a voluntary “buddy system” to help non-English speakers acclimate. One-on-one interactions will help non-English speakers adjust to the work culture and enhance exchanges to strengthen their English language capabilities.