Better Speaking Podcast 🗨️🗣️ How to organise your speaking

Summary

This video script focuses on improving English speaking skills for non-native speakers, using the example of businessman Stelios Haji-Ioannou. He explains the importance of speaking English in international business and how it helped him succeed in the UK. The script emphasizes the organization of speech, such as using question-and-answer techniques and clear markers like ‘and another thing is’ or ‘but in fact.’ It also advises against using too many idioms or jokes with non-native speakers to maintain clarity. Tips are provided for learners on how to organize their speech effectively, making it clear and accessible.

Takeaways

• 😀 Clear communication is key to success in business, and speaking English well is essential for global business operations.
• 😀 English is the preferred business language, and knowing it allows easier communication with a wider audience.
• 😀 Organizing speech clearly is crucial for effective communication. Using linking words like 'and' and 'but' helps listeners follow the conversation.
• 😀 Asking a question and immediately answering it is an effective way to structure speech and engage the listener.
• 😀 To highlight important information, speakers can use phrases like 'and another thing is' or 'on top of that'.
• 😀 Contrastive phrases such as 'but in fact' or 'on the other hand' can help clarify differences in ideas.
• 😀 Introducing new ideas or topics with phrases like 'An interesting question is' or 'Let me tell you about' engages the listener.
• 😀 Overuse of idioms and colloquial expressions can be problematic when speaking with non-native English speakers, as they may not be understood.
• 😀 It’s better to focus on speaking simply and clearly, especially when communicating with non-native speakers in business contexts.
• 😀 Observing how fluent speakers organize their speech, including the use of linking words and contrasting ideas, can help learners improve their speaking skills.
• 😀 When learning English, it's important to listen not only to the content but also to the structure and organization of the speech.

Q & A

Why is English considered the business language by Stelios Haji-Ioannou?

Stelios Haji-Ioannou believes that English is essential for business because it is widely spoken internationally, making it crucial for communication, especially in the global market. He points out that while Greek is useful in Greece, it is not very practical outside of the country.

Why did Stelios choose to start his airline in the UK instead of Greece or other European countries?

Stelios chose the UK because Greece was too small and geographically situated at the wrong end of Europe. He believed that to tap into larger markets like Germany, France, and the UK, English was the only language he could effectively use to communicate with customers.

How does Stelios organize his speaking, and why is this important for communication?

Stelios organizes his speaking by asking questions and then providing answers. This method helps prepare the listener for the answer, making it easier for them to follow the conversation and engage with the speaker's ideas.

What does Richard Hallows suggest that listeners can learn from Stelios's way of speaking?

Richard Hallows suggests that listeners can learn how to organize their speech better, specifically how to ask questions and provide answers, and use phrases like 'and another thing is' or 'on top of that' to introduce additional information naturally.

How can learners of English improve their communication skills, according to Richard Hallows?

Learners can improve by focusing on organizing their speech, listening carefully to how native speakers organize their ideas, and practicing adding information, contrasting ideas, and introducing new concepts. It's also important to be aware of how others use phrases to structure their communication.

What is the role of phrases like 'and another thing is' and 'but in fact' in spoken English?

Phrases like 'and another thing is' and 'but in fact' help signal additional information or contrast. These phrases guide the listener and make it clear that something important is coming next, improving the clarity and flow of conversation.

What advice does Stelios give regarding the use of colloquial expressions and idioms in international communication?

Stelios advises against using too many colloquial expressions or jokes when communicating with people whose first language is not English. These expressions may not be understood and could hinder effective communication, especially in business settings.

Why does Richard Hallows warn learners about focusing too much on idioms and colloquial expressions?

Richard Hallows warns that while idioms and colloquial expressions are fun to learn, they may not be effective when communicating with non-native English speakers. Overusing them can make the speaker unclear and lead to misunderstandings.

What are some ways speakers can clearly contrast information in English?

Speakers can contrast information by using phrases like 'but in fact', 'on the other hand', or stressing the word 'but' to signal a shift or contrast in ideas. This helps the listener understand that a different perspective or contrasting information is being presented.

How can learners use transcripts to improve their speaking and listening skills?

Learners can use transcripts by reading through them and highlighting phrases that show how speakers add information, contrast ideas, or introduce new topics. This can help learners understand the organization of speech and apply these strategies to their own communication.