It can be extremely difficult to communicate in your non-native language in the workplace, especially when you have to talk with your boss. Here are some simple rules to follow, with an example each, which may make it easier for you to impress your boss:
1. Be enthusiastic – use phrases such as “I’d love to work on that new project”, “I appreciate the opportunity”, and “It would be a pleasure.”
2. Be polite – Always say “Thank you” and “Please, even if you don’t feel positive about something. When your boss gives you an instruction, say “Let me start with that right away.”
3. Be imaginative – If you have a good idea, don’t be afraid to suggest it. Say things like “Why don’t we …?”, “I think it would be great if we could…”
4. Ask for feedback – Your relationship with your boss should be a two-way street. Don’t be afraid to ask for feedback, but be careful for being annoying. Use something like “Have you had time to review my project?”, “I would like to know how I did so I can improve”, and “Are there any areas where I could have done better?”
5. Be supportive – We are not saying you should brown-nose your boss. Merely try to understand his goals, how his mind works, and then align your priorities with his. Say things like “I can understand how the sales figures in the branch causes you and the company concern. I suggest that we…”
6. Seek solutions – You are there to play a specific role, and that role is to ensure that you align yourself with the goals of the company. Therefore, it is important that you are not seen as being too passive. Be assertive, seek solutions and say things such as “How can we turn this thing around?”
Coaches at Burkley Global have many years of proven experience in business and assisting non-native English speakers in achieving their best in the business environment. Click here to sign up for one of our English Business Coaching packages.
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Read this article by Forbes on ways to win over your boss:
https://www.forbes.com/sites/jacquelynsmith/2013/11/06/9-ways-to-win-over-your-boss/#3d1f70507df8