Six tips for communicating clearly with intermediate English speakers

1. Keep your language as simple as possible.
It's not about the English sounding good. It's about what the other person can understand.

2. Speak more slowly
Speak at a slow speed (2 out of 5).
If something is very complex or emotional, slow it right down to a 1.

3. Only include key information
If it isn't necessary, leave it out. Too much information can make it harder for the other person to follow your message.

4. Lead with the key sentence.
Often people explain all the reasons first and then finish by saying:
"This means we cannot change the deadline."
However, it is much easier to understand if you start with:
"Unfortunately, the deadline can't be changed" and then explain the reasons afterwards.

5. Use a clear structure
Have a simple, clear structure to your explanation. This means that even when there is language confusion, the other person should still be able to follow your reasoning.

6. Let AI help you.
If you have something that is very difficult to explain, ask AI to:
"Write a short explanation of X for non-Germans using B2-level English."
It normally does a really good job.

Remember when you're communicating in English at work, your goal isn't to sound impressive or have the best English possible,
Your goal is to make sure the other person understands you.
And when you're speaking with people who have intermediate-level English this is all about your communication skills.