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How to communicate when others don’t speak your language
without getting frustrated…
Coming from a family of immigrants, I know the challenges of a language barrier firsthand. Particularly when it came to school, my brothers and I often found ourselves as the interpreters between our teachers and parents. They didn’t always understand what the letters sent home meant and they didn’t exactly know how the college application process worked. Nonetheless, they wanted to be involved in our education even if they needed to learn alongside us. While it brought about some challenges, there is something about having a second language under your belt that helps you better empathize and communicate with non-English speakers. If you are unsure about how to respond in situations in which a language barrier challenges communication, here are a few tips you can follow:
1. Understand Cultural Sensitivity
In order to properly communicate, it’s important to be aware of potential cultural differences present between you and the person you are speaking to. Cultural sensitivity allows you to learn about and understand people whose cultural background is different than yours. While you each share differences, it’s important to acknowledge them without judgement. Without needing to become an expert in the aspects of another culture…
