Why Translating Isn’t Enough: Navigating Language, Accent, and Meaning
You’re on a Zoom call with a client whose first language isn’t English.
They speak clearly but pause often. Their responses are brief. You repeat yourself once or twice. You wonder, “Are we connecting?”
You’ve used simpler words. You’ve even double-checked with a translator once. But something still feels off.
Here’s why: Translation ≠ understanding.
Even when words are technically correct, meaning can still be missed—because language is layered with culture, tone, pace, and context.
If your client speaks a different first language, even fluently, it’s not just about what you say. It’s how you say it. How you check for clarity. How you handle those micro-moments when comprehension breaks down.
That’s where the ARC Method® comes in.
Step 1: Ask – Clarify Communication Preferences
Before diving into your message, take time to understand how your client prefers to communicate. This might include:
“Would it be helpful if I followed up in writing after our meeting?”
“Are there any terms you’d like me to avoid or explain in more detail?”
“Would you prefer slower pacing or visual examples as we go?”
These questions can feel small, but they give your client agency and set the tone for mutual respect.
Step 2: Respect – Slow Down and Simplify Without Dumbing Down
This part can be tricky. You don’t want to sound patronizing or condescending. But when someone is operating in a second (or third!) language, simple is powerful.
Here’s how to show Respect through communication:
Speak slower, not louder. Volume doesn’t increase comprehension—pace does.
Use direct sentence structure. Avoid run-on sentences, idioms, or heavy slang.
Repeat for clarity, not for control. You might say, “Just to make sure we’re aligned…” or “Let me say that another way.”
Respect also means not interrupting. If your client pauses, allow space. They may be translating in real time or choosing their words carefully.
Step 3: Connect – Use Visuals, Stories, and Follow-Up
Once you've adjusted your language and listened actively, connect by reinforcing the message in multiple ways.
This might mean:
Visual aids: A chart, slide, or even drawing on a whiteboard can do more than a paragraph ever could.
Follow-up emails: A written recap after your meeting helps reinforce mutual understanding.
Stories and metaphors: Just make sure they translate. “Boiling the ocean” may land in the U.S., but it won’t always make sense elsewhere.
Finally, ask:
“Did that explanation work for you?”
“Would it be helpful to explain this in another way?”
Connection isn’t about perfection. It’s about staying open and showing you care enough to try again.
What This Looks Like in Practice
You’re onboarding a new client in Germany. Their English is excellent, but you notice they’re struggling with one section of your proposal. You used business jargon like “low-hanging fruit” and “moving the needle.”
You pause and say:
“Let me say that another way—what I mean is the easiest wins we can achieve together early.”
Their body language shifts. They nod. The connection is back.
It wasn’t translation that helped. It was your willingness to clarify with care.
Why This Matters
We’re working in a global marketplace. Your next client might be from São Paulo, Singapore, or Stockholm—and they might speak excellent English. But language fluency isn’t the same as cultural fluency.
With the ARC Method®, you can navigate those invisible communication gaps with grace.
You can prevent misunderstandings before they become misalignments.
Try This
Reread one of your last client emails. Are there idioms or acronyms that could confuse someone outside your culture?
Practice slowing down your pitch or presentation by 10–15%. How does that shift the tone?
Next time you sense hesitation, pause and ask, “Would you like me to rephrase that?”
Want your team to be crystal clear—even in complex, cross-cultural conversations?
Voices Carry is our foundational workshop that helps professionals slow down, speak clearly, and build trust—across language, culture, and context.