Public speaking is hard enough. Doing it when English is your second language is even harder.
If you’re reading this, chances are you know exactly how that feels.
After all, millions of second-language English speakers do it all the time. Many of us may be fluent in English but we still worry about not finding the right word at the right time; about mispronouncing something; about our accents sounding strange and unclear; about being judged for sounding foreign.
We worry that we’re not presenting the best version of ourselves and our work because we’re not native English speakers. In truth, if you’ve ever felt that being a second-language English speaker could be holding you back, you might just be right. You can't magically become a native speaker, but there are things you can do to help yourself.
Don't ignore the obstacles
Being bilingual is a great advantage. It leads to creativity and a broader view of the world. But whichever other language you speak, English will always be the privileged language, the global language which is key to accessing the international community in whichever field you work in.
Not speaking English as your native language does come with disadvantages. Maybe you don’t feel confident enough when you have to address a conference. Maybe you’re a journalist, young and not so young, who would like to work in international, English-language news. Or maybe you just want to feel more comfortable when speaking up at work meetings or on social occasions.
Being second-language English is a barrier that is rarely discussed, a sensitive subject many shy away from. But if you keep ignoring it, it could hold you and your career back.
How my experience can help you
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I’m a TV News anchor and journalist, with more than 20 years of experience working as a presenter/correspondent for some of the world’s leading news networks, including Sky News, the BBC and Al Jazeera English.
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I’m also one of the very few non-native English speakers to work at the highest level of English-language broadcasting.
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I realised long ago that this could be a disadvantage, and I fought hard to compensate for not being a native speaker. I like to think I succeeded, but it’s not without effort. Even now.
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Since I sound different because of my non-native English accent, I have often been approached by other second-language speakers, journalists and non, for advice on how to break through the linguistic barrier.
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After countless conversations over the years, I had the idea to create this programme. I believe linguistic diversity is key to having a truly inclusive workplace. But it’s not easy or obvious. So I want to share the tips and insights I gained along the way.
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This programme is the result of my 20+ years’ unique experience in international and British broadcasting, and of listening to the doubts and frustrations of so many other second-language English speakers.
Introducing my online programme "Find Your Authentic Voice" in English.
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What this programme is NOT
This is not an English Language Course. I am not a language teacher and I don’t pretend to be one. To get the most out of my course, you need to already speak English fluently. It is also NOT a course just for journalists. It is for anyone who wants to communicate more confidently and effectively in English.
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What this programme IS
What I offer you is a unique insight into the linguistic and cultural challenges around speaking English as a foreign language. I share tried and tested methods and advice on how to become a more confident and genuine speaker in English.
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My overall aim for YOU
My aim is to share some practical tips I’ve developed and to give you the CONFIDENCE TO FIND YOUR AUTHENTIC VOICE even when speaking a language that’s not your mother tongue.
Here's exactly what you will get by enrolling in my online programme "Find Your Authentic Voice" today.
Lesson 1 - Introduction
I'll outline the challenges you face as a second language English speaker. How to overcome them while gaining confidence and speaking with your best voice that is true to your background.
Lesson 2 - Accents
Foreign accents can be a barrier. Learn to differentiate between intonation, speed and diction. Should you try to change you accent, and if so, how? The most important things are clarity and authenticity.
Lesson 3 - Language
Your foreign accent is what's most noticeable, but are you sure your language is up to scratch? Grammar, vocabulary, idioms: See where you may need to strengthen your language, and how.
Lesson 4 -Â Culture
You're not just speaking a foreign language. You're speaking a foreign culture. Gain awareness of how the Anglophone culture impacts what we call 'international'. Be aware of the Anglosphere's cultural norms while being true to your own.
Lesson 5 -Â Media Training
Live TV interviews are hard. Giving them if English is your second language is harder. Learn how to tailor your media training to your bilingualism.
Lesson 6 -Â Know Your Audience
Who are you speaking to? Are they native speakers or an international audience? Learn the importance of differentiating between them and tailoring your speech accordingly.
Lesson 7 -Â Journalists
Domestic news or international? Broadcasting or print? On-air or production? This lesson is for my fellow journalists. How to be trusted by your editor, clear for the audience and get real honest feedback. I think non-journalists will find it very interesting too.
Lesson 8 -Â Why It Matters
There can be no serious conversation around diversity without also including non-native voices. Your voice matters BECAUSE it's different. Learn how to be proud of it and use it.
Hear From One Of My Happy Students
"For a non-native English speaker like myself who is trilingual, I felt heard and supported. The course, for me, identifies and names the main challenges I encounter as a non-native, and it offers practical suggestions and initial steps to tackle them! Barbara echoed my feelings - someone who comprehensively grasps the intricacies of communicating in a different language and the mental processes involved. I highly recommend, especially, a one-to-one session for personalised feedback!"
YR - Radio Producer and Reporter
To cater for as many of you as possible, I have 2Â options:
The Foundation Package
Access to your very own online learning portal. Immediate access to the 8 core modules of the programme. A Certificate of Completion upon completion of the course. The ability to post any questions you may have.
The Pro Package - currently unavailableÂ
(Click on 'Private Coaching' on Home Page for future availability and one-to-one coaching)
Access to your very own online learning portal. Immediate access to the 8 core modules of the programme. A Certificate of Completion upon completion of the course. The ability to post any questions you may have. A Private 1:1 Call with me live on Zoom (60 mins). We'll email beforehand so I can find out about your linguistic background, specific challenges and aims. On the call itself I'll be able to hear how you speak and interact with you directly for a more bespoke experience. Due to the personalised nature of this package, SPACES ARE LIMITED. So if you think this is the right option for you, please don't delay.
Join "Find Your Authentic Voice" Today
By signing up to my programme, you will benefit from my 20 years' experience in the industry. If you're considering it, don't delay - it won't be open for long.
My 100% Satisfaction Guarantee
I am so confident that this programme will deliver great value, that I have included a 30 day 100% satisfaction guarantee:Â If you sign up you will get a full 30 days to see if it's a good fit for you. If it's not for you, just email me within 30 days of your purchase and I will refund 100% of your investment. No questions asked.
Hear From Another Satisfied Student
"Barbara's course is a valuable experience for anyone (not just for journalists) who wants to communicate in English confidently and authentically. The course helps you to understand the deep connection between language and culture, develop effective and clear communication and avoid getting hung up on trying to imitate a native speaker. I highly recommend this course to anyone who wants to improve their English communication skills while staying true to themselves."
