It is a common misconception many Germans in business have. They assume you simply need to translate your business culture and expressions into English, and everything will be fine. This leads to a lot of misunderstandings and even awkwardness or worse - offense.

Because although you surely use very formal English in business it is also a way to distance yourself from your business partner. You also risk building a trustful business relationship.

How can you tell if your English is too formal? One ‘red flag’ is if you have too many long words of Latin origin in one sentence or paragraph you make it unreadable.

Here is an example: The decision will undoubtedly present her with a somewhat peculiar predicament.

The same applies to business emails or spoken English. It sounds awkward and sometimes even arrogant.

When have you used formal English and weren’t sure whether it was appropriate or not?

Or when, in your opinion, would you use some rather formal English in business situations? Maybe you would like to record yourself speaking and then look for words of Latin origin for example. In case you find some, think of exchanging them.

4 Must-know levels of formality in English.

If you want to make sure your communication fits your business situation, then start by understanding the levels of register. Your benefit is better rapport with your business partner, better business conversations, and more trust.

I would like to describe and give you some examples of the 4 different registers of language in this paragraph.

1. Intimate: you use this type of register with people who are close to you, like family or close friends. You share private information that you wouldn’t share with a stranger. Here, you can also use slang words.

Example: Hey guys. What’s up?

2. Casual: it is used in informal conversation with people who know each other.

Example: How is it going?

3. Consultative: this kind of register is used in professional settings when you seek advice from a doctor or a consultant of some kind.

Example: I understand that you want to improve your English.

4. Formal: you use it in official or ceremonial situations and also in presentations and official meetings.

Example: We are gathered here today to discuss further arrangements for our business.

Think of some situations and write them in a writing journal. You can also write your thoughts down and how it makes you feel. I suggest that you decide which register to use according to the situation you are in. In business, you might use a casual register with people you are familiar with and sometimes a consultative or formal register.

1. Here are some business situations embedded in a little quiz. What kind of language register would you use here? You can choose between intimate, casual, consultative, and formal.

2. Small talk with a close friend, b.) small talk with a business partner, c.) official speech, d.) letter of complaint, e.) giving advice, f.) Shakespearean play.

Takeaway

Hopefully, you have a better grasp of what is at stake when your English is too formal. To keep working on your business communication on your own, you could listen to business podcasts or read conversational business blogs. And if you think this skill may be affecting your ability to do business, don't be afraid to work with a trusted coach. It doesn't take as long as you might think to improve your grasp of appropriate business conversation skills.

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