Learning how to use articles in English is hard. These little words (a, an, the) give so many of my clients so many problems. Why is that? Let’s look at how several languages handle ‘definite and indefinite articles,’ as they are called. Articles are related to gender. Interestingly, in Old English (up to 1150 A.D.) [...]
MAIN POINT: If you have a foreign accent, Americans do not think you are as believable as those without an accent.
Communication is everything! No matter where we are or what we do, the ability to communicate successfully is KEY! My clients tell me over and over again that their accent has been holding them back in their lives. They feel like they are better, smarter, more capable than their communication in American English indicates. Some of my clients have told me that they have been passed over for promotions and/or do not make the money they would like because of their inability to communicate successfully in American English. Does this sound like YOU? Do you feel like you would be viewed differently by your employer if you and your employer spoke your native language? That you would be farther ahead because the language you spoke wouldn't put a barrier in front of you?
The New Year is approaching as we are experiencing (so far) a very warm holiday season in the Midwest. I wanted to say hello to my clients from my newly-designed website that has this wonderful BLOG section. With the change from one year to the next comes a renewed hope for good things, improved things, and new happiness in life. I am looking forward to many changes in my personal life, and know that many of you are, as well. You have traveled to a foreign country, gotten a job, found a place to live and are busy working hard to make the type of life that you have always dreamed of. I so admire all of my clients who, without exception, have dared to immigrate to someplace totally new and foreign, away from family and friends. Your move to America has taken great courage and determination!
