Hi, I'd like to seek advice on tips of improving English communication skills. As a non-native English speaker, I find that during case interviews in English, I couldn't be as cocise and sharp as native speakers. I feel that language has impacted my ability to communicate my ideas clearly.
Please share your thoughts, especially if you've worked in consulting in a foreign country where the local language isn't your native language. Thank you.
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Hey there,
If your sole focus now is to become a top consulting communicator, I would look into resources that revolve around the type of communication that is needed for case interviews and the daily life on the job and less on more general English language classes. In practice this means:
Reach out if you need help with learning to communicate most effectively. As a former Mck consultant and researcher, it is a core pillar of my coaching.
Cheers,
Florian
Hi there,
It is difficult to answer a communication question without seeing you “in action” but I will try anyway ;)
If you want to specifically improve your English, possible tips are:
If you want to improve case communication, possible tips are:
Hope this helps,
Francesco
Hi,
This question has been answered before and there are plenty of threads in the Q&A forum. Have a look at these:
In terms of English not being your first language can actually help- you will keep it simple, use simpler vocabulary. Believe me, I have come across many native speakers candidate who just talk non-stop and try to bullshit their way. Its all about structured thinking and presenting well. This will come with practice.
All the best,
Interesting point. Personally, I feel it's the opposite; it's more correlated with clarity of thought.
Hello! Such a good question.
Start with finding a good teacher. Watch news, read business journals, everything in English for sure. But the best way is to have native speakers friends, With them you can polish and practice your skills - something like a specking club. And don’t forget: practice, practice, practice.
Hello!
I totally get you, English is not my 1st language either and it seems that you are running the race with less speed!
What helped me most was honestly tons of practice. Of course once in McKinsey, but in the prep, I found GMAT verbal part really useful too. It forced me to take a toooon of practice, which was a pain but helped a lot.
Hope it helps!
Cheers,
Clara
Hi there,
Having learned (and maintained) 3 languages, I recommend the following approach...efficiency in time is key here:
1. Conversational: Download the app HelloTalk. It pairs you up with people that are opposite to you (i.e. learning your language, but native in English) and you chat via text, audio, call etc. It has awesome features (such as edit functionality so the other person can edit your messages for correctness).
2. Vocabulary: Use either handwritten flashcards and/or the app Quizlet. Review these whenever waiting (i.e. on the bus, cooking, on hold, etc)
3. Listening: Download English podcasts and listen while you sleep. I.e. put the phone next to your bed, at a soft enough volume that you can sleep, but loud enough that you cna hear the words. You'll be amazing how your listening improves.
4. Dedicated/tailored training: Go to www.italki.com. It's the PrepLounge for languages!
