Navigating Client Meetings in a Foreign Country: Tackling Language Barriers Handling language barriers in client meetings abroad isn’t just about translation—it’s about connection. Here’s how I ensure smooth communication: 1️⃣ Prep Smart – Research key business terms in the local language & cultural norms. Small gestures go a long way. 2️⃣ Leverage Tech – Use AI translation tools but keep human interpreters for nuance. 3️⃣ Simplify & Confirm – Speak clearly, avoid jargon, and summarize key points for alignment. 4️⃣ Body Language Matters – A nod, a pause, or a smile can bridge gaps where words fail. 5️⃣ Follow Up in Writing – Confirm discussions in emails to avoid misinterpretations.

Prepare in Advance: Familiarize yourself with key phrases or terms that are relevant to your business. Even learning a few words or greetings in the local language can show respect and effort. Use Professional Translators: If possible, hire a translator who is familiar with the industry-specific language. For important meetings, this ensures nothing gets lost in translation. Clear and Simple Language: Speak slowly and avoid idiomatic expressions or jargon. Keep sentences short and clear to ensure your message is easily understood.

There's plenty of technology and AI to help on that matter. Many people are still stuck on a bubble seeing language barriers as a monster inside the wardrobe but truth must be said: this should be seen as a ghost from the past. There are great apps with use of AI that can make communication across different languages very straightforward. Google translation, Android and Apple devices pre-installed apps and others should do the trick. Obviously, there is much more than languages barriers when it comes to navigate meetings in foreign countries, like cultural differences, way of expressing things, tone of voice, etc but this is another story - which by the way, is much more crucial than the mere language barrier, in my opinion.