There can be so many different factors that affect intelligibility. It’s a combination of incorrect pronunciation of words, rhythm, intonation, volume, word stress ….
So how do we “measure out” corrections when we have limited hours with clients and so much we all want to achieve? Give too many, too quickly, too soon, too forcefully, and it’s easy to overwhelm and discourage.
Our clients are often busy people with careers and families. They’re also, often, successful, hard-working and tired. Though we think that age brings patience, often successful people are proud and confident of their achievements. High achievers can also get discouraged in a new endeavour that demands changes to entrenched habits tied into their identity.
We need to be mindful and ready to adapt to their needs. Less can be more.
And we need to model and motivate.
We want them to look forward to these “extracurricular” studies. We want to motivate them to practise wherever they can, with whatever time they have. In some ways, as demanding as learning new communication skills can be, our classes and their individual practice can be a beautiful refuge from the pressures of workplace and family.
We need to make their classes joyful and uplifting. More than just informative or instructive, we need to energize and encourage.
Whether we’re working with groups or coaching individuals, our exuberance should be infectious and our support –– unambiguous.
Everyone can learn … everyone. If we can help them to be patient and forgiving of themselves. If we can inspire them to adopt realistic expectations. A plateau precedes progress. And the most minuscule improvement is a step forward and deserves celebration.
If we can be coaches and motivators, we can work with a recipe that will fuel the success of our clients.
Your thoughts are most welcome.
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