Relocating to France from the United States: A Practical Guide

For many who live in the U.S., the idea of moving to France conjures up romantic visions: charming cafes, exquisite food and wine, high fashion, the Eiffel Tower. Those visions tend to leave out the details of what relocating to France actually entails. There’s the paperwork—lots of paperwork. Navigating a different culture. Not to mention getting the hang of French verb conjugations.

However, for professionals relocating to France for work, as well as HR leaders and others who support their organization’s expats, these details are a big deal. That dream assignment in France can quickly turn into a nightmare if you struggle to find the right apartment, fit in at your new office or even ask your neighborhood grocer a question. And when expats have problems, organizations have problems. The cost of a failed international relocation can soar to over $1 million.

At Fluency Corp, we’ve helped countless U.S. professionals build the language skills they need to thrive at work and in their personal lives when they relocate to France. Through this work, we’ve learned about all the other ins and outs of the immigration process. We’ve also seen just how big a difference preparation (including, but definitely not limited to, language training) makes during relocation. So we’ve rounded up some of the most important info, tips and strategies for moving from the U.S. to France.

Do Americans Need a Visa to Move to France?

Oui! The good news is that visa support for the expat employee and their family is part of a typical corporate relocation package.

Getting a visa will also likely be your introduction to French bureaucracy. “Red tape is a reality in France,” Jeremy Berthoux, president of Home Conseil Relocation, told us in an interview. Especially if you’re on your own in securing a visa, allow plenty of time. The process can take two to six months, Jeremy said.

One more quick note on visas: This information was up to date when we wrote this article in spring 2026. But you should always check official French government sources for the latest on visa requirements.

What Is France’s Cost of Living?

How far will your salary go in France? According to the crowdsourced database livingcost.org, the average cost of living in France is 30% lower than in the U.S. But before you start dreaming about a shopping spree at Le Bon Marché with all the extra cash you’ll suddenly have, you should know that any change in your cost of living depends on your unique situation.

The most important factors: Where do you currently live in the U.S.? And where will you be moving in France? Paris, which is home to about a quarter of all U.S.-born residents in France, has a lower cost of living than U.S. business centers like New York, San Francisco and Seattle. However, expats from other major U.S. cities, including Chicago, Atlanta and Denver, will likely find living in Paris more costly than what they’re used to.

But there’s much more to France than Paris, of course. Lyon, another common destination for U.S. residents moving to France, has a cost of living that’s comparable with Fluency Corp’s home city of Dallas, Texas, and less expensive than all the U.S. cities we listed above.

How Hard Is It to Find a Home in France?

It can be pretty difficult! If your employer is moving you to France, pay special attention to the housing support provided in your relocation package. And if you’re a corporate relocation or global mobility specialist, you should know that housing support is one of the most important factors in a successful move to France.

If you’re headed to an urban area like Paris, chances are your new home will be an apartment instead of a house. About two-thirds of residents in French cities live in flats. As an expat, you can rent or buy, but either option has its share of hurdles.

In our conversation with relocation expert Jeremy Berthoux, he told us that the rental market has fewer properties than potential tenants. “This tension enables landlords and realtors to pick and choose their tenants, which they do very carefully as French law is very protective of tenants and makes it very difficult for landlords and realtors to deal with issues linked to late or missing payments,” he said. Which means there’s probably a mountain of paperwork between you and an apartment.

No laws prohibit Americans from buying property in France. Just be aware that it may be harder to get a mortgage, and that owning property does not automatically give you the right to live in France. There’s no escaping that visa rigmarole.

What Should U.S. Families Know About Relocating to France?

Moving to France on your own is complicated enough. But relocating with a spouse and kids adds even more challenges. Whether you’re an expat yourself or it’s your job to support your organization’s expats, take family support very seriously. Family unhappiness is one of the major reasons that international relocations fail.

Your spouse may be able to continue working remotely for their U.S. employer. But if they need to job hunt in France, assistance from your employer can make a big difference. Unemployment in France is high right now, which can mean intense competition for roles. The do’s and don’ts of job hunting in France also differ from those in the U.S. Take resumes, or CVs. In the U.S., job hunters are advised not to include a photo or info about their hobbies and interests. In France, though, photos and a list of pastimes are common in resumes.

Most international relocations also include benefits that will help your kids adjust to life in France. Ask about whether your package includes help finding a school and childcare. You may even receive education stipends.

From our years of work with families relocating internationally, we can tell you that language training for the whole family (not just the expat employe) makes a huge difference in whether the move succeeds. You may be perfectly happy at work, but if your spouse and kids lack French language skills, they’re less likely to form the connections they need to thrive. And that brings us to this question …

How Much French Do Expats Need to Know?

France isn’t a country where you can comfortably get by on English, even in major cities. As relocation expert Jeremy Berthoux told us, French people are notoriously not great at speaking foreign languages, though he notes that’s less true in international workplaces. In smaller towns, English is rare.

The sooner you and your family can begin language lessons before your move to France, the better. You don’t need complete fluency (which is likely impossible in the time you have, unless you have previous experience with French). But every little bit helps in getting settled and adjusting to work and life in French.

If you’re choosing French language classes for yourself or other employees at your location, look for programs with instructors who are native speakers and with a format that includes lots of speaking practice. These two factors make all the difference in whether you can keep up with real-life conversations when you’re in France. It’s also essential that your French classes are tailored to the specific needs of you and your family. That means covering the specific vocabulary you need for your job (not just general “French for the workplace”) and your life. Whether it includes making friends with other parents, managing a medical condition or finding a D&D group.

Where Fluency Corp Comes In

Moving to France can be the adventure of a lifetime for you and your family. New friends, new experiences, new horizons in your career. With the right support and preparation, they’re all possible. We’re here to make the language piece of all that easier. We have a long track record with organizations across industries and clients learning languages around the world. We know how hectic international relocations can be, so we emphasize flexible online and in-person options. With either option, our clients work with native-speaker instructors who customize lessons to their needs, and have a knack for making learning fun. And if you’re on the support side, we think you’ll be glad to learn that we rigorously track progress and ensure regular check-ins.

Let’s talk more about relocations to France, whether you’re headed overseas yourself or you manage your company’s relocations. Schedule your free consultation now.

Corporate Relocation Packages: Why Language Training is the Missing Piece

Professional woman and man carrying boxes, files, and a plant, preparing for relocation, Illustrating the blog topic "Corporate Relocation Packages: Why Language Training is the Missing Piece"

Picture this: You’ve just been promoted. Your company is sending you from Chicago to Tokyo for three years to lead a regional team. Your relocation package with first-class flights, a spacious apartment downtown, international schooling for your kids, even a car allowance feels generous. On paper, everything looks perfect.

But the first time you step into the office, reality hits. Your Japanese colleagues speak English quietly, formally, and with subtle nuances that don’t come across in translation. The jokes fall flat. The meetings feel stiff. Your spouse is lonely, unable to connect at the grocery store. Your child comes home from school frustrated, not understanding classmates on the playground.

Suddenly, that generous relocation package doesn’t feel so complete anymore.

There is a gap many companies overlook: language. Without it, the employee and their family may never fully integrate, and in some cases, the assignment may even fail.

Why Language Gaps Undermine Corporate Relocation Packages

Relocation packages often prioritize the “big-ticket” items: visas, housing, schools, and moving allowances. These are essential, but they don’t address the everyday frictions that determine whether an employee thrives or struggles.

Think about it:

  • A relocated manager can’t confidently give a presentation in the local language.
  • A spouse avoids social gatherings because small talk feels impossible.
  • A child feels isolated at school, unable to join in games or jokes.

According to Aperian research, nearly 40% of international assignments fail, not because of job performance, but because of the family’s inability to adjust. Language, or the lack of it, is often the hidden culprit.

Now imagine if that same package included personalized language training for the whole family. The manager could deliver their presentation in Japanese, the spouse could chat with neighbors at the market, and the child could laugh along at recess. The ripple effect? Greater job satisfaction, longer assignments, and stronger company loyalty.

The Business Case for Language Training in Relocation Programs

1. Faster Workplace Integration and Stronger Performance

Workplace success isn’t simply about technical skill or job knowledge. It’s about how effectively you can connect, collaborate, and build trust with the people around you. Employees who can communicate fluently in the local language don’t just function better, they belong faster.

This sense of belonging dramatically reduces the adjustment period, boosts morale, and prevents the frustration that often comes with constant miscommunications.

When an employee can greet a colleague in their native tongue, crack a small joke, or pick up on subtle shifts in tone, it creates instant credibility.

They’re no longer “the outsider,” they’re part of the team. This integration is what transforms a technically skilled employee into a trusted collaborator who can influence, motivate, and inspire across borders.

Practical Example: An engineer relocating to Germany may technically manage with English in most meetings. But when she walks into the room and says “Guten Morgen, wie geht’s?” instead of just “Good morning,” the room warms instantly.

When she later recognizes that a German colleague’s “maybe” really means “no,” she avoids a costly misstep. These subtle but powerful connections help her move from simply “being understood” to actually being respected.

 

2. Stronger Global Leadership and Cross-Cultural Influence

Leadership today is global. A leader isn’t judged only by what they know, but by how they make others feel heard, respected, and included. Language is central to that.

Multilingual leaders aren’t just bilingual in words, they’re bilingual in perspective. They can adapt tone, body language, and cultural expectations to connect meaningfully with people from different backgrounds.

This ability is what separates a manager from a connector. Instead of simply relaying instructions, multilingual leaders act as cultural interpreters who make sure messages land the right way. They know when warmth matters more than efficiency, when formality conveys respect, and when informality builds rapport.

Scenario: Picture a bilingual project manager in Mexico. If she simply translates directions from English to Spanish, she does her job. But when she softens her tone, acknowledges local holidays, and uses phrases that resonate with cultural norms, her team feels understood, motivated, and valued.

Suddenly, she’s not just a manager, she’s the bridge that holds the project together.

 

3. Reduced Family Isolation and Higher Assignment Retention

Here’s the often-overlooked truth of relocations: the success of the assignment doesn’t rest solely on the employee’s shoulders. If their spouse or children can’t adjust, the assignment is at risk of failing.

Families who don’t know the local language often experience deep isolation. They struggle with daily routines, are unable to form friendships, and feel like permanent outsiders.

This isn’t just a family problem; it’s a business problem. When an employee’s partner is unhappy or their children are struggling, the employee feels torn and distracted, making it harder to perform at their best. Language training for families is a relatively small investment with massive payoff and it helps everyone integrate, build confidence, and enjoy the experience abroad.

Practical Tip: Companies that offer family-inclusive language sessions see far better outcomes. Even a few hours of personalized lessons can give spouses the vocabulary for grocery shopping, navigating healthcare, or social small talk.

Children can learn playground phrases, helping them make friends faster. These small wins translate into a happier family and a more focused, productive employee.

 

4. Lower Risk and Better Return on Relocation Investment

Relocating employees is one of the most expensive HR investments a company can make. Between flights, visas, housing allowances, schooling, and cost-of-living adjustments, SHRM estimates that sending one employee abroad can cost up to $97,000 per year.

Now imagine spending that kind of money only to have the assignment fail six months in because the employee couldn’t adjust or because their spouse insisted on returning home. Not only is the money wasted, but the company also risks losing valuable clients, disrupting projects, and damaging reputation.

By contrast, language training costs a fraction of the relocation budget, but directly protects it. Employees with language support adjust faster, stay longer, and deliver stronger performance. It’s not an optional perk; it’s insurance for your investment.

Perspective: You wouldn’t spend $100,000 on a new company car and skip the insurance. So why spend nearly that much on an employee relocation without ensuring the protection of language training?

What Happens When Language Training Is Excluded?

When companies overlook language training, the consequences ripple far beyond awkward conversations. It’s more than an employee stumbling over a greeting or mispronouncing a client’s name. It’s about lost opportunities, strained relationships, and real financial loss. Here’s what can happen when organizations fail to prioritize language and cultural training:

 

1. Missed Business Opportunities

Negotiations are delicate. A single mistranslation or misunderstanding can change the tone of an entire deal. Without proper language training, employees often rely solely on English or AI-driven tools. While functional, these approaches miss the nuances of tone, formality, and cultural expectations that often determine success in international business.

Scenario: Imagine a U.S. executive pitching to a Japanese partner. In English, she says, “Let’s cut to the chase.” To her, it signals efficiency. But to her Japanese counterpart, it comes across as rushed and disrespectful.

Then suddenly, the tone of the meeting cools. What could have been a multi-million-dollar contract is now at risk because the subtle rules of communication weren’t understood.

 

2. Weakened Client Relationships

Clients don’t just buy a product or service; they buy trust. When employees can’t engage in even basic conversations in the client’s language, they risk being seen as distant, transactional, or culturally unaware. Over time, this creates frustration and weakens long-term loyalty.

Scenario: A German client receives quarterly updates from their U.S. account manager in English. While accurate, the updates feel cold and overly formal.

But when a competitor makes the effort to deliver reports in German and even includes a friendly “Wie geht’s?” At the start of every call, the difference is palpable. Guess which company earns the renewal?

 

3. Employee Burnout

Communication barriers aren’t just inconvenient, they’re exhausting. Employees who constantly struggle to make themselves understood experience stress, frustration, and imposter syndrome. Over time, this leads to burnout and decreased productivity.

Scenario: An IT specialist relocated to France spends her workdays double-checking every email through Google Translate, fearing mistakes. Meetings drain her energy because she’s translating in her head instead of contributing ideas.

 

By the end of the week, she’s not just tired, she’s disengaged. Without language training, her skills go underutilized, and her motivation declines.

 

4. Family Dissatisfaction

Even if the employee adapts, their family’s adjustment can make or break the relocation. Spouses and children who feel isolated in a foreign culture without language skills often push for early returns. That means not only a failed assignment but also wasted investment.

Scenario: A finance professional thrives in his new role in Switzerland, but his spouse feels trapped. Trips to the grocery store are stressful, making friends is nearly impossible, and children struggle at school.

After months of frustration, the family decides to return home. The company loses a top employee, and the $97,000 relocation package is wasted because the family wasn’t supported with basic language tools.

 

Language Training Is a Business Strategy, Not a Soft Skill

Too often, language training is treated as an optional, nice-to-have item rather than a necessity. But the risks show it’s not about “soft skills”. It’s about:

  • Protecting a company’s bottom line by avoiding failed deals and early assignment terminations.
  • Preserving client relationships by showing cultural respect and genuine effort.
  • Safeguarding employee wellbeing by preventing stress, burnout, and disengagement.
  • Supporting families so employees can perform at their best without personal strain.

Companies that cut corners on language training don’t just risk awkward meetings — they risk profits, people, and long-term success.

How to Integrate Language Training into Corporate Relocation Packages

Here are four practical ways organizations can make language support a core part of relocation packages:

 

1. Customized Business Language Coaching

Forget generic apps. Employees need workplace-specific fluency: industry terms, meeting vocabulary, negotiation strategies. Fluency Corp’s coaching focuses on practical, real-world business situations.

 

2. Family-Inclusive Language Support

Spouses and children are part of the relocation and if they don’t adjust, the assignment struggles. Offering family lessons signals that the company values everyone’s success.

 

3. Ongoing Learning Programs

One workshop isn’t enough. Continuous coaching ensures retention and confidence. The Science of Language Retention proves that spaced learning is key.

 

4. Technology as a Supplement, Not a Replacement

AI tools like DeepL or Google Translate help, but they can’t replace cultural nuance. Use them as supplements, not substitutes, to human-led coaching. The Rise of AI-Powered Language Tools

A Comparison: Relocation With and Without Language Training

Without Language Training: A senior executive moves from Houston to Madrid. He’s technically skilled but struggles to bond with his Spanish team. Meetings feel awkward. His spouse feels isolated. Within a year, the family returns home.

With Language Training: Another executive moves under the same conditions, but with Spanish coaching from day one. Within six months, she’s leading meetings confidently, her spouse is making friends, and her children are thriving at school. The assignment is extended, and the company wins a key contract in Spain.

The difference? Language.

Completing the Relocation Equation

Corporate relocation packages are designed to make employees comfortable. But true success comes not from comfort but from connection.

Language training isn’t just another perk. It’s the missing piece that transforms a relocation from a logistical move into a life-changing opportunity — for the employee, their family, and the company.

Companies that include tailored, ongoing, and family-inclusive language training will see higher retention, stronger leadership, and better ROI.

 

Build Stronger Corporate Relocation Packages

Preparing for international employee relocations? Do not let language barriers undermine your investment. Partner with Fluency Corp to design customized, business-focused language training for employees and their families.

Contact us today to build relocation packages that drive performance, retention, and long-term global success.

How to Learn a New Language Before You Move: Your Complete 30-Day Plan

Happy couple moving into a new home, illustrating the blog topic "How to Learn a New Language Before You Move: Your Complete 30-Day Plan"

Moving to a new country is exciting—new people, new culture, and… a whole new language! Whether you’re relocating for work, study, or a fresh start, language skills can make or break your transition experience. The good news? You can make serious progress in just 30 days with the right strategy.

At Fluency Corp, we specialize in helping professionals build language skills quickly, effectively, and practically. This guide gives you a day-by-day roadmap to develop your communication abilities before you board that plane.

Why Start Now? The Power of Pre-Move Language Preparation

Many expats wait until after they’ve arrived to start learning the local language—but this can cause frustration, misunderstandings, and culture shock.

Early preparation reduces relocation stress, boosts professional confidence, and helps you settle in faster.

In fact, as we explore in How to Integrate Expats Into Your Company, early language learning is key to smooth workplace integration and faster productivity.

The 30-Day Plan: Structured for Success

Our 4-week program combines immersive learning, cultural exposure, and practical application. It’s designed for busy professionals who want real-life communication skills—not just textbook theory.

Week 1: Build Your Language Survival Kit

Goal: Focus on high-frequency words and essential phrases you’ll need every single day in your new country.

The first week is all about practicality. You won’t be writing essays—you’ll be preparing for the real-world situations you’ll face immediately after landing. Think of this week as packing your “language emergency kit,” making sure you’re ready to navigate daily life with confidence.

 

Start with Functional Vocabulary

Before learning complex grammar, you need survival vocabulary—the words and phrases you’ll rely on constantly.

Essential categories to master:

  • Greetings: “Hello,” “Good morning,” “How are you?”
  • Introductions: “My name is…”, “I’m from…”, “I work as…”
  • Food & drink: “I would like…”, “How much is…?”, common food words like “water,” “bread,” “coffee,” “vegetarian.”
  • Directions & navigation: “Where is…?”, “How do I get to…?”, “Left, right, straight ahead.”

Example sentences you’ll need in week 1:

  • “Excuse me, where is the nearest grocery store?”
  • “Could I have a coffee to go, please?”
  • “I’m learning [language], can you speak slowly?”

 

Focus on Pronunciation Basics

Mispronunciation can cause misunderstandings even if you know the word. Spend time:

  • Listening to native pronunciation on apps or YouTube.
  • Practicing tricky sounds using slow, repetitive drills.
  • Recording yourself and comparing your pronunciation to native speakers.

Tip: Use YouTube’s slow-speed setting to listen more carefully. For extra help, apps like Speechling or Forvo offer pronunciation feedback.

 

Use Language Apps to Practice Anytime, Anywhere

  • Duolingo and Memrise are excellent for beginners because they gamify vocabulary building and make it easy to learn on the go—great for lunch breaks or commutes.
  • Anki (flashcards) is ideal for custom vocabulary lists, especially if you want to add professional terms.
  • Spend 10–15 minutes daily to build consistency. Just like brushing your teeth—small, regular practice keeps your skills fresh.

 

Listen to Beginner Podcasts and YouTube Channels

Listening trains your brain to recognize the rhythm and natural speed of conversation.

Tip: Shadow listening—repeat sentences aloud immediately after you hear them—builds both pronunciation and confidence.

Internal Fluency Corp Resource: Check out Essential Language Skills for Sales Teams in International Markets to see how targeted, situation-specific vocabulary can help you learn faster and sound more professional, especially if you’re relocating for work.

 

Outcome by the end of Week 1

  • You’ll be able to introduce yourself confidently.
  • You’ll handle basic daily interactions without stress.
  • You’ll start understanding key words in conversations and signs around you.
  • You’ll develop listening and pronunciation habits that make future learning much easier.

Your first week is about surviving with ease—weeks 2, 3, and 4 will build on this to help you thrive.

Week 2: Master Essential Business Communication

Goal: Build confidence and professionalism in workplace conversations—so you don’t just survive in your new role, you shine.

In Week 1, you learned how to get through everyday situations. Now, you’ll shift gears to focus on professional communication—because whether you’re relocating for work, starting a business, or expanding your career, the ability to communicate effectively in the workplace is crucial for success.

 

Learn to Introduce Yourself Professionally

Social introductions are one thing, but workplace introductions require a more polished, clear approach.

Key phrases to master:

  • “Good morning, my name is [Your Name]. I’m the [Your Position] at [Company Name].”
  • “Nice to meet you. I recently relocated from [Country] and will be working in [Department/Role].”
  • “I specialize in [Your Skillset] and I’m excited to contribute to the team.”

Pro tip: Practice both formal and casual introductions.

Examples:

  • Formal: “Hello, I’m Maria Gonzalez, Sales Manager at ABC Corp.”
  • Casual: “Hi, I’m Maria. I work in the sales team.”

Bonus resource: Use The Role of Language Proficiency in International Leadership Development to see why mastering professional introductions can directly impact your leadership growth.

 

Master Key Workplace Expressions

You don’t need to master thousands of business phrases—just the most common and practical expressions used daily in professional settings.

Situations to focus on:

  • Meetings:
    • “Let’s get started.”
    • “Could you clarify that point?”
    • “May I add something?”
  • Presentations:
    • “Today, I’ll walk you through…”
    • “Our objective is…”
    • “Let’s move to the next slide.”
  • Small Talk:
    • “How was your weekend?”
    • “Is this your first time working in [Country/Industry]?”
    • “What projects are you currently working on?”

Tip: Focus on useful, high-frequency phrases—the ones you’ll actually use in meetings, calls, and daily office chatter.

 

Practice Writing Short Business Emails and LinkedIn Intros

Email writing is a professional lifeline. Avoid awkwardness by practicing:

Simple structures:

  • Subject line: Brief but clear.
  • Greeting: “Dear [Name],” or “Hi [Name],”
  • Purpose: “I’m reaching out regarding…”
  • Closing: “Best regards,” “Looking forward to your response.”

Example short email:

Subject: Quick Introduction
Hi Anna,
I wanted to quickly introduce myself. My name is Carlos, I’ve recently joined the [team name] team as a [role]. Looking forward to working with you!
Best regards,
Carlos

LinkedIn intro practice:

“Hi [Name], I’m moving to [City] soon for [Job Title]. I’d love to connect and learn more about [Industry/Market]. Looking forward to staying in touch!”

 

Use Voice Notes to Practice Speaking

Recording yourself helps with confidence, clarity, and pronunciation:

  • Record your introduction
  • Record yourself reading workplace dialogues
  • Listen and correct yourself
  • Use apps like WhatsApp, Telegram, or even your phone’s voice recorder. Send it to yourself or a language partner for feedback.

 

Example Exercise: Create a 60-Second Elevator Pitch

Craft a 60-second pitch about your job or business. Focus on:

  • Who you are
  • What you do
  • How you add value
  • One interesting fact about your work

Sample structure:

“Hi, I’m [Name]. I’m a project manager specializing in [specific skill]. I help companies streamline operations and improve team efficiency. I recently led a project that increased productivity by 20%. I’m excited to apply these skills in [new country] and collaborate with new teams.”
Record yourself, time it, refine it—this is your go-to introduction for any networking or professional setting!

 

Why This Matters

By the end of Week 2, you’ll:

  • Feel more confident introducing yourself in professional settings
  • Navigate meetings and presentations with ease
  • Communicate more clearly via email and LinkedIn
  • Be ready to speak with purpose and professionalism

This week transforms you from a “visitor” to a competent professional voice in your industry.

Optional Extra: Explore Essential Language Skills for Sales Teams in International Markets or Hospitality Language: Why Language Skills Matter for Hotel Management if your role is industry-specific!

Next stop: Week 3—handling cultural situations with grace!

Week 3: Cultural Fluency + Industry Vocabulary (Deep Dive)

Goal: Move from simply speaking the language to understanding how it’s used in your cultural and professional environment.

This week isn’t just about the words you say—it’s about how you say them, when to say them, and reading between the lines of cultural expectations.

Language proficiency without cultural understanding can lead to awkward moments, misunderstandings, and even missed opportunities. By focusing on cultural fluency alongside industry-specific vocabulary, you’ll build authentic connections and excel in your professional life abroad.

 

1. Learn Basic Etiquette & Cultural Norms

Why it matters:

Even with perfect grammar, poor cultural awareness can create barriers. Understanding local etiquette shows respect and helps you fit in quickly.

Focus on:

  • Greetings and goodbyes: Is it a handshake, a bow, a kiss on the cheek?
  • Formality levels: When to use formal titles like “Mr.” or “Dr.” versus first names.
  • Small talk topics: What’s appropriate? (In many countries, talking about salary is a no-go; sports or weekend plans are safer.)
  • Punctuality expectations: In Germany, punctuality is respect; in some cultures, a 10-minute delay is normal.
  • Body language and gestures: Avoiding rude signals (like thumbs up in some cultures), maintaining or avoiding eye contact.

Practical Exercise: Create a simple “Cultural Do’s and Don’ts” list for your destination country.

Resource Tip: Use How to Integrate Expats into Your Company to understand workplace cultural integration strategies used globally.

 

2. Learn Industry-Specific Vocabulary

Why it matters:

Mastering key phrases in your industry helps you function competently at work from day one. It also speeds up your adaptation into professional environments.

How to do it:

  • Write down 10 key terms or processes you use daily at work.
  • Translate them or research how they are said in your new language.
  • Watch industry-specific tutorials, podcasts, or webinars.
  • Read job descriptions in your field for common terminology.
  • Practice explaining your job in simple terms in the new language.

Examples:

  • Hospitality: “double booking,” “check-in,” “complimentary upgrade.”
  • Sales: “lead conversion,” “follow-up,” “quarterly target.”
  • Tech: “API integration,” “debugging,” “user experience.”

Useful Resources:

 

3. Watch Local TV, News & Media for Cultural Insight

Why it matters:

Local media gives you real-time exposure to language in use—slang, tone, humor, and cultural references that textbooks skip.

How to do it:

  • Watch news segments for formal language.
  • Watch a popular TV show or Netflix series from the country to hear informal speech.
  • Use subtitles (start with your native language, then transition to target language).

Tip: Note down expressions you hear repeatedly and practice them out loud.

Further Resource: Check out Master English Vocabulary Through TV Shows — adaptable advice for other languages too.

 

4. Write Questions to Ask Colleagues & Locals

Practicing questions improves your conversational confidence and demonstrates curiosity about local culture.

Sample Starter Questions:

  • “What’s your favorite local restaurant?”
  • “Are there any must-visit places nearby?”
  • “What’s the typical way of celebrating [upcoming holiday]?”
  • “Could you explain how this process usually works here?”

Exercise: Write 10 culturally curious questions you can practice and ask during your first week at work or in your new neighborhood.

 

5. Bonus Activity: Decode Business Jargon

Business jargon can be confusing—even for native speakers. Read Exploring the Weird and Wonderful World of Business Jargon to:

  • Decode typical confusing phrases.
  • Understand the nuance between casual office speech and formal communication.
  • Avoid pitfalls like misusing idiomatic expressions that don’t translate well.

Mini Challenge: Write a simple explanation for 5 business buzzwords in your new language.

 

By the End of Week 3, You Will:

  • Understand key cultural dos and don’ts.
  • Be familiar with essential professional vocabulary in your field.
  • Feel more comfortable interacting socially and professionally.
  • Know how to navigate everyday interactions with greater confidence and fewer cultural misunderstandings.

This week’s goal is not just speaking a language—but living it. Next week, we’ll cover how to turn these foundations into conversational flow and natural dialogue!

Week 4: Real-World Simulation & Practice

Goal: Activate your learning in realistic scenarios.

  • Record yourself having a mock conversation at a store, restaurant, or meeting.
  • Book a professional language coaching session (like Fluency Corp’s personal coaching services).
  • Join an online language exchange community.
  • Simulate a real day: schedule, conversations, small talk—all in your new language.

If you need a deeper dive into the science of learning efficiently, explore The Science of Language Retention.

Bonus Tips: Maximize Your 30-Day Learning

What Success Looks Like in 30 Days

  • You’ll confidently introduce yourself in social and professional settings.
  • You’ll understand common phrases in shops, restaurants, and your workplace.
  • You’ll feel less anxious, more independent, and culturally aware.
  • You’ll integrate into your new environment faster than colleagues who didn’t prepare.

Fast-Track Your Success with Fluency Corp

With just 30 days, you can transform your relocation experience—from overwhelming to empowering.

At Fluency Corp, we help you build practical language skills tailored to your industry, country, and professional goals.

Want a custom pre-move learning plan? Contact Fluency Corp for personalized coaching or corporate group programs to fast-track your fluency before you relocate.

Summary of Key Fluency Corp Resources:

Ready to make language your relocation superpower? Book your first session with Fluency Corp today.

Benefits of Living Abroad in an English-Speaking Country

Man walking in London on Thames sidewalk, with blurred people on background. He is looking away. Photo taken on a sunny winter day. Living abroad in an English-speaking country

Relocating to an English-speaking country is a transformative experience, especially for non-native speakers. Whether it’s for work, education, or personal growth, the advantages of living abroad go far beyond mastering a language.

From advancing your career to enhancing cognitive abilities, immersing yourself in an English-speaking environment can shape your life in unexpected ways.

As globalization increases, more people are choosing to live and work in countries where English is the primary language. These countries, which include the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, offer significant opportunities for both personal and professional growth.

By immersing yourself in a new linguistic and cultural environment, you gain invaluable skills that set you apart in an increasingly competitive global market. Here are the key benefits of living abroad in an English-speaking country.

Mastering English: The Key to Global Success

In today’s interconnected world, English is the dominant language of business, technology, and science. According to research from Harvard University, proficiency in English is a critical determinant of employability and upward career mobility, especially in fields that require cross-border communication.

English has become a global lingua franca, meaning that it’s often the common language used in multinational corporations, international trade, and academic research.

Living in an English-speaking country offers non-native speakers the opportunity to learn the language in the most natural setting—by immersion. This is the fastest way to become proficient, as learners are constantly exposed to real-life conversations, idiomatic expressions, and the subtle nuances of the language.

In fact, research shows that people learning a new language through immersion can acquire fluency three to five times faster than those who learn it through traditional classroom methods. Fluency Corp outlines how language fluency, especially in English, is critical for long-term success in both personal and professional arenas.

One of the key benefits of immersion is the opportunity to develop an intuitive understanding of English, something that cannot be fully gained through textbooks.

When you’re surrounded by English in everyday contexts—whether you’re ordering food at a restaurant, reading street signs, or engaging in casual conversations with locals—you begin to think in English. This enhances your ability to grasp the language’s structure, vocabulary, and cultural context.

Moreover, immersion helps learners understand the cultural nuances that come with language. For example, American English is rich with slang and idiomatic expressions that are rarely taught in formal education settings.

Learning American slang and colloquial expressions is crucial for non-native speakers who want to integrate more fully into social and professional circles. Check out this guide to learning American English slang to understand how learning informal language helps you blend in more seamlessly and make authentic connections.

Learning a language by immersion also enables you to pick up on different regional accents, which is an essential skill when interacting with people from diverse parts of the English-speaking world. This is particularly important if you plan to work in a global company or travel frequently.

Mastering regional accents can be a crucial part of becoming fully fluent in the language and being able to communicate effectively across cultural and geographical boundaries. For example, this resource explores the unique characteristics of Southern American accents, which vary significantly from the standard American English taught in schools.

Cultural Integration and Awareness

Language and culture are deeply intertwined, and living in an English-speaking country offers more than just language acquisition—it’s a gateway to a broader understanding of cultural norms, traditions, and values. Cultural immersion helps you develop a deep sense of empathy and adaptability, which are highly valued skills in today’s globalized workforce.

When you live abroad, you’re not merely learning a language in isolation; you’re also learning how to communicate effectively in a new cultural context. This means understanding social norms, such as when it’s appropriate to use formal language or when humor is acceptable in a business meeting.

For example, British humor, which relies heavily on irony and understatement, might seem confusing at first to non-native speakers. However, by immersing yourself in the culture, you learn to appreciate these nuances and integrate them into your own communication style.

Participating in local holidays and traditions is another important aspect of cultural immersion. Whether it’s celebrating Thanksgiving in the U.S. or attending a bonfire night in the U.K., these experiences help you build a connection to the culture, making it easier to form friendships and build a social network.

The importance of cultural immersion in personal and professional growth cannot be overstated. Fluency Corp’s guide on American slang, for instance, points out how understanding informal language can enhance social connections and ease the cultural adaptation process.

Living abroad also broadens your worldview, making you more open-minded and adaptable. These qualities are essential in today’s global workforce, where employees are often required to work with colleagues from diverse cultural backgrounds.

Companies increasingly value employees with high intercultural competence—those who can navigate cross-cultural interactions with ease, sensitivity, and respect. This competence is particularly important in multinational corporations, where understanding and bridging cultural differences can be the key to successful teamwork and collaboration.

Professional Growth and Networking Opportunities

For many people, one of the primary reasons for moving to an English-speaking country is to advance their careers.

English-speaking countries, such as the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia, are home to some of the world’s most dynamic and competitive job markets. These countries are often global leaders in fields such as technology, finance, healthcare, and education.

Living and working in an English-speaking environment can have a dramatic impact on your professional trajectory. Not only do you enhance your language skills, but you also gain a deeper understanding of the local business culture. This is essential for anyone looking to work in a multinational corporation or pursue leadership roles in a global company.

For example, professionals living in the U.S. have access to a wealth of networking opportunities that can help advance their careers. Attending industry conferences, workshops, and professional networking events allows you to meet influential people in your field, share ideas, and learn about new trends and developments.

In the U.S., networking is often seen as a critical part of career development. Events like the Mile High SHRM Annual HR Conference provide valuable opportunities to connect with professionals from diverse industries, share experiences, and find mentors who can guide your career growth.

Moreover, living in an English-speaking country offers you the chance to build a professional network that would be difficult to develop from abroad. For instance, this resource emphasizes the importance of mentorship in professional development.

Finding a mentor can significantly enhance your career by providing guidance, feedback, and opportunities to grow. Mentors not only help you navigate the workplace but also offer valuable insights into the local business culture and expectations.

Being part of an English-speaking professional environment also exposes you to specific workplace jargon and terminologies that are essential for career advancement. This is particularly important for expatriates working in multinational corporations, where fluency in business English is crucial for effective communication.

By living in an English-speaking country, you naturally pick up on the language used in business meetings, email correspondence, and negotiations, giving you an edge over competitors who may lack this experience.

Educational Advancements

English-speaking countries are home to some of the best universities and research institutions in the world, including Harvard, Stanford, Oxford, and Cambridge. These universities are known not only for their rigorous academic programs but also for their emphasis on research and innovation.

By living in one of these countries, you gain access to unparalleled educational opportunities that can significantly enhance your intellectual and professional growth.

Even if you’re not enrolled in a formal academic program, living in an English-speaking country provides ample opportunities for lifelong learning. You have access to English-language books, academic journals, and media that can expand your knowledge and keep you up to date with the latest research in your field.

This is particularly important for professionals in fields like technology, healthcare, and education, where staying current with the latest developments is essential for career advancement.

For international students and professionals, many English-speaking countries offer language learning programs tailored to their specific needs. Programs like these we provide at Fluency Corp that help expatriates improve their language skills while also teaching them about regional accents, workplace etiquette, and cultural norms.

These programs are designed to enhance communication skills, making it easier for expatriates to integrate into their new environment and succeed in their careers.

Furthermore, living in an English-speaking country allows you to engage directly with cutting-edge research and innovation. Universities in the U.S. and U.K. are leaders in fields such as artificial intelligence, biotechnology, and social sciences.

By living in these countries, you can attend public lectures, participate in academic conferences, and collaborate with leading experts in your field. This exposure to cutting-edge knowledge is invaluable for anyone looking to advance their career or pursue further education.

Personal Growth and Cognitive Development

Living abroad in an English-speaking country doesn’t just enhance your career prospects—it also has a profound impact on your personal growth and cognitive development. Research has shown that living in a foreign environment can improve problem-solving skills, creativity, and resilience.

When you’re constantly exposed to new and unfamiliar situations, you’re forced to think on your feet, adapt to changing circumstances, and find innovative solutions to challenges.

One of the most significant personal benefits of living in an English-speaking country is the development of a global mindset. By interacting with people from different cultural backgrounds, you become more open-minded and adaptable.

These qualities are essential in today’s world, where success often depends on the ability to collaborate with people from diverse cultural, linguistic, and professional backgrounds.

Moreover, learning a new language has been shown to improve cognitive abilities. Bilingualism enhances memory, problem-solving skills, and mental flexibility. These cognitive benefits extend beyond language learning and can have a positive impact on other areas of your life, including work and personal relationships.

For example, researchers have found that bilingual individuals are better at multitasking and switching between tasks. This is because learning a second language trains the brain to switch between different linguistic systems, which enhances overall cognitive flexibility. In a world where multitasking is often a necessity, bilingualism can give you a significant advantage.

Living abroad also enhances your emotional intelligence, as you learn to navigate different cultural norms and social expectations. This can make you more empathetic and understanding, qualities that are essential for building strong personal and professional relationships.

For expatriates, learning how to navigate cultural differences can reduce feelings of isolation and help them integrate more smoothly into their new environment.

In addition to cognitive and emotional growth, living in an English-speaking country can also improve your overall well-being. Studies have shown that living in a new environment and learning a new language can reduce stress and anxiety by providing a sense of accomplishment and mastery.

Successfully adapting to a new culture and language can boost your confidence and self-esteem, leading to greater happiness and fulfillment.

Unlocking the Potential of Life Abroad

The benefits of living abroad in an English-speaking country are vast and multifaceted. From mastering the global language of English to advancing your career, expanding your worldview, and enhancing your cognitive abilities, the experience of living in an English-speaking environment can have a profound and lasting impact on your life.

Whether you’re looking to advance your career, pursue educational opportunities, or simply experience personal growth, moving to an English-speaking country is an investment in your future.

The skills, knowledge, and experiences you gain will set you apart in today’s competitive global market and open doors to new opportunities. By immersing yourself in the language and culture, you unlock the potential for personal and professional growth that can shape your life in ways you never imagined.

For those planning to relocate, resources such as Fluency Corp’s language learning programs can help make the transition smoother and more rewarding. By providing personalized language coaching and cultural integration support, these programs ensure that you make the most of your time abroad and achieve your personal and professional goals.

Whether you’re already living in an English-speaking country or planning to make the move, the benefits are clear: living abroad is a transformative experience that can help you unlock new opportunities, build lasting connections, and thrive in an increasingly globalized world.

Relocating to the U.S.: Why It’s Important to Learn Regional Accents

world map view with the United States in focus with a shallow depth of field

We’ve heard the story many times. A professional who has studied English in their own country relocates to the U.S. for work. They feel confident about their English abilities. But then they’re thrown for a loop by their colleagues’ regional accents.

To a non-native speaker, an American with a strong regional accent might not even sound like they are speaking English. Understandably, that makes it difficult for the expat to do their job. They may feel too self-conscious to admit they are having trouble understanding their colleagues.

And their employer might overlook the need for language training — after all, fluency in English is probably one of the reasons the expat got a U.S. assignment in the first place.

So why does this happen? And, if you’re in this situation, what can you do to better understand your colleagues’ mysterious way of speaking? Don’t worry — we’ve got answers.

Why Are Regional Accents So Tricky?

No matter how much you studied English back home, your classes probably didn’t get around to covering all of the regional accents in the U.S. This doesn’t mean there was a problem with those classes. There are a lot of regional accents here. Your instructors could not possibly have covered them all.

On top of that, most of your English conversation practice before you relocated to the U.S. probably was with people like you: natives of your country who speak English as a second language.

Even if you have previously worked or studied in an English-speaking country, the people you met then might not have spoken with the same regional accent you are dealing with now.

And, truthfully, sometimes even we Americans have trouble understanding people from other regions. If you put someone from Boston and someone from Charleston in the same room, it would take them awhile to get used to each other’s accents.

Benefits of Studying Regional U.S. Accents

We always advise professionals who have relocated to the U.S. to take English classes that specifically address the regional accent their colleagues speak in. If you’re feeling bummed about needing additional instruction after you’ve already studied English for so long, let us assure you that you’ll gain many benefits from the work you put in.

When you better understand your colleagues’ regional accents, you’ll be able to collaborate with them more smoothly. When the ideas are really flowing, you don’t want to slow the momentum by asking your colleagues to repeat themselves. You can also reduce the likelihood of miscommunications.

Learning about your colleagues’ regional accents will also enhance your relationships with them. It makes sense, right? It’s easier to join in conversations, whether in work or social settings, when you actually understand what people are talking about.

Finally, learning a regional accent can be just plain fun. Accents symbolize the rich diversity and variety in the U.S. They will also teach you a lot about a region — for example, the migration patterns that shaped an area.

Master a Regional Accent with Fluency Corp

If you want to master a regional accent, we can help at Fluency Corp. You might assume that we’re only a language training company, but we also help professionals with accents, whether it’s understanding the accent of others or reducing their own accent when speaking English.

Our highly tailored classes, taught by native English speakers, include lots of practical, conversational experience to help you learn English faster and apply what you’ve learned right away.

Interested in hearing more about English language training with Fluency Corp? Contact us at getfluent@fluencycorp.com or (800) 401-3159.

Relocating Abroad? Discover the Key to Stress-Free Temporary Housing

Exhausted young couple sit rest on sofa in living room near heap of cardboard boxes feel unmotivated to unpack their belongings.

After years of hard work, you’ve signed your name on the dotted line and you’re one flight away from your dream job. Maybe you’re eager to explore a long-awaited destination as you write the newest chapter in your travel saga. Or perhaps you’re seeking a safe space to start anew.

Whether you’re relocating for work or seeking a temporary housing solution, embarking on a move to a new country can be an invigorating yet intimidating experience.

This next step in your journey encompasses feelings of excitement, nervousness, pride, courage, anxiety, doubt, hope, faith, and so much more. But at its root, to you, a foreign country is simply that—foreign.

While learning a language with Fluency Corp is an instrumental way to gain confidence in a new country, finding the perfect temporary housing empowers you to create a home away from home. When you don’t know the area, or speak the language, you can find comfort in knowing that you have a place to call your own.

No matter your reason for moving, you’ll want a living space that accommodates your specific needs and is in a secure and accessible location. One way to reduce stress in the moving process is to work with a corporate housing company that has a knowledge of your destination and can identify a temporary accommodation tailored to your expectations and requirements.

Instead of having to guess, you’ll receive guidance on everything from where you should stay to whether a place is clean, safe, and—most importantly—right for you.

What Is Corporate Housing?

In your international travels, the last thing you should have to worry about is finding a comfortable place to lay your head. While hotels and hostels may be wonderful for a couple nights or a long weekend, they do not always guarantee your security and safety, and you’re stuck constantly eating out or snacking on the mini bar.

In contrast, if you’re embarking on an extended stay or relocating for work, finding a permanent residence can be a stressful and exhausting experience—especially if you’re new to the area.

The perfect temporary housing solution, corporate housing offers fully furnished, serviced accommodations with amenities such as wi-fi, dining ware and fresh linens. Whether you’re a remote worker or a digital nomad, you can get to work right away in the comfort of a home setting chosen just for you.

With basic necessities at your fingertips and customer service available in the time zone of your new location, you can focus on settling into your new environment and getting acquainted with your surroundings and community.

Why Choose Corporate Housing?

Want to be near the office? Close to coffee shops for when you’re working remotely and want a change of scenery? Or near the city center so you can practice your new language and fully immerse yourself in the local culture?

Similar to Fluency Corp’s customized approach to language training, a corporate housing company will work with you to define your housing priorities and choose what makes the most sense for you. No need to worry about whether you are staying in the right or wrong place. Your location and safety are pre-considered when housing is provided to help make you feel at home faster.

To allow for a comfortable and easy transition, make sure to inform the corporate housing company of anything specific that is needed at your temporary home. Are you bringing a pet? Do you have a toddler in tow? Are you going to need a parking spot? The more you share, the better your housing solution will be.

With move-in ready housing, you can take comfort in knowing that each serviced accommodation is inspected, cleaned and all prepared for your arrival (no old food left in the fridge or musty smelling towels). The apartment will be fully furnished and equipped with everything from wi-fi to fresh linens to cooking utensils.

Imagine everything you’d find in a hotel room, but better—with abundant space to spread out, cook your own meals, organize your work-from-home setup and rest at ease. If any issues arise, someone is always just a call or text away to offer help.

How Do You Get Started?

When relocating to a new country, you may feel overwhelmed or out of place. We know how chaotic moving can be, especially when your destination is one you have yet to explore. The most important thing to remember is that you’re not alone, and there are resources available to you that can help to alleviate the anxieties of moving.

Your temporary housing should be one less headache, so take advantage of a corporate housing company and their guest services team. Knowledgeable about your accommodations and your local area, they should be able to answer any questions and ease your anxieties.

Should any service issues arise, you’ll have someone that you can reach out to. And once you arrive at your destination, you’ll have peace of mind knowing that all you have to do is walk through the door.

Let Synergy Help You Find the Perfect Temporary Home

With 15 global offices, Synergy has been providing temporary apartments for companies and individuals for 25 years. We know that no housing need is the same and understand that relocating somewhere, whether for a month or permanently, is a big step. We believe that housing should be the least of your concerns.

Our goal isn’t to simply provide you with a place to stay, but to offer you an experience. A positive relocation will hopefully set the stage for a successful and stress-free transition to your new home base.

Paired with your newfound knowledge of the local language, you’ll feel like a local in no time. Should you need assistance with a temporary apartment, please reach out to us here.

Learn Business English with Fluency Corp

At Fluency Corp, we’ve helped professionals in all fields improve their business English skills so that they can accomplish the goals that are important to them. Most of our clients get results that others can notice after just 10 hours of instruction.

Our highly tailored classes, taught by native English speakers, include lots of practical, conversational experience to help you learn English faster and apply what you’ve learned right away.

Interested in hearing more about English language training with Fluency Corp? Contact us at getfluent@fluencycorp.com or (800) 401-3159.

International Relocations to the USA with Kids: Tips for Learning English as Quickly as Possible

Closeup shot from below of six children huddled together looking down on the camera and smiling.

Preparing to move overseas is an involved process for anyone. But when you have kids, there’s even more to think about. Based on our work with scores of families during their global relocations, we have some tips to share for expat parents and kids.

Why Children Benefit from Living Abroad

Your kids might be one of the reasons inspiring your international move. After all, they’re going to work in a world that’s even more globally connected than ours is now, and living abroad is great preparation for that. According to the Expat Explorer survey by HSBC, parents who have moved their families overseas say their kids experience benefits like these:

  • Gaining fluency in more than one language; improving their communication ability overall.
  • Becoming more adaptable to change.
  • Learning about different cultures.
  • Forming friendships that span the globe.
  • Becoming more open-minded, tolerant and flexible.
  • Showing more initiative.

The Challenges of Moving Overseas with Children

But while moving internationally with kids can be a great adventure, it also brings its own set of challenges. Altair Global studied the factors that impact employees’ productivity during international moves. One of the most significant ones was getting kids enrolled in school in their new country.

More than one-third of respondents to Atlair Global’s survey said this was a high-impact factor on their productivity during their move, which means that it caused three or more days (combined) of lost productivity. Additionally, just under a third said deciding if the move was right for their family was a high-impact event.

It’s also easy to see the role of kids in other high-impact events, such as finding a new home (cited by 66% of survey respondents) and settling into their new community (cited by 32%).

Moving Abroad: Kids Need Language Classes, Too?

So how can you maximize the benefits of an international move for your kids while minimizing the challenges?

You may already be thinking about language training for yourself and your spouse ahead of your move — at least we hope you are! But most parents are focused on how the kids will adjust to this new life, culture, and of course, language!

Becoming fluent in the language of your new country will help all of you feel at home faster and to make new friends. That’s especially important for kids who are feeling sad about being away from their old friends back home. Language classes just for kids, like online Spanish classes for kids, can help your child become fluent.

In our experience, parents are overly worried about their childrens’ language barriers. Take this story as an example: we had a Korean couple hire us to work with their 4-year-old in reading and overall fluency. They were worried that he didn’t speak English like a native speaker and this would cause him to struggle in the upcoming kindergarten year.

The child had already attended preschool in the US for 2 years. What they didn’t realize was that their son was 100% fluent, just like any other American kid. He had been in ‘English lessons’ for the past 2 years at preschool, so basically, he was getting 20+ hours a week of English classes. That’s over 2000 hours of speaking English, which is more than enough to be fluent.

They were also worried that he would have an accent when speaking English, like they do. I assured them, after meeting with the child, that he was a native speaker in English, just like all his peers. He was simply fluent in Korean as well. How awesome!

The Best Age to Move Abroad? Your Child’s Age Matters

But if you’re moving your child at an older age, that is a different story, although most studies show that no accent can be detected if the child moves before the age of 16 and (and this is very crucial), they assimilated into the community by making friends that speak English, and did activities with native English speakers on weekends. Moving abroad with younger children means they can acquire new languages more easily.

Those children who stayed in their first language in the evenings and on the weekends, typically still had an accent, because they were not practicing English enough, soon enough, to retain the native accent. We are not saying that a native accent is needed at all, but this is one of the most-asked questions when parents call us for advice about their kids getting fluent in English.

Best Activities for Kids Moving Internationally

This is what we highly suggest when moving here with any child: sign them up for as many activities as possible, especially if you move at the beginning of the summer and have 2-3 months before school starts. This will give them a head start!

If your child likes sports, sign him or her up for as many summer teams as possible. If your child simply wants to play, go to the playground for a couple of hours a day and make friends with the other parents there. After you’ve made some friends, set up playdates so your child can get extra talk time each day.

Focus on getting 500 hours of playtime in before school starts (and when we say playtime, what we’re referring to is talk time and exposure to the language being spoken). One mother called us mid-July, worried that her 9-year-old son would not be ready for 4th grade by September.

She had done the right thing by signing him up for a lot of sports right away, and when we asked her about how he was following the rules of the game, she repeated that he does exactly what the coaches say. Sounds like he’s already catching on quite well, I told her.

Games are a great way to get exposure, make friends, and have a lot of fun, since there are a lot of hand motions and gestures when playing sports, which help the kids catch on quickly. Find activities your children love to help them get involved internationally!

What NOT to Do When Moving Abroad

DO NOT, and I repeat, DO NOT stop speaking to your child in your native tongue after you move abroad. Most parents think that this will help the child. I assure you, it will not. They will be fluent within one year of starting school, and all you’re doing is taking away their 2nd language. I urge you to keep your household a ‘native language only’ zone.

This means that when your children cross the threshold of your home, you only speak in the parents native tongue. So many parents tell us that they speak English in the home to help their children adjust, but what’s really happening (and we see it every day), is that you’re taking away your children’s’ second language, which is a huge asset for their future.

Also, push hard not to put your child in the ESL class at school. Or, if the school insists, sign them up for many activities after school and on weekends to make sure they are around native speakers that can give them faster progress with fluency.

It often takes children twice as long to assimilate if they are with tons of other children that do not know what’s going on. Yes, it’s hard to be in a class where they don’t understand the new language, but they will learn very fast.

Talk to them each day, support them, get a tutor to help with homework, and love on them constantly, communicating how proud you are of them for being so brave to start this new journey as a family.

Be Neighborly

Another idea to give your child further exposure to English or another language is to set up neighborhood pool parties or get togethers. Make fun invitations together, and walk around the neighborhood delivering the invites. This will literally open the door to more invitations from other neighbors when they have a kids party in the future.

Further ideas are swimming lessons at the local YMCA, daycare at the gym while you destress, reading time at the local library, and meetup groups with other parents in the area.

Take Advantage of Relocation Benefits

If your relocation package offers language and cultural training for you and your family, take advantage of it. Unfortunately, though, such training is often left out of relocation benefits packages. More than half (53%) of respondents to Altair Global’s survey said language training was not provided for their accompanying family members.

And 46% said cultural training was not provided. If you can’t negotiate with your company to provide language and culture classes, consider investing in them on your own.

Additional Resources for Moving Internationally with Kids

If you have more questions or concerns about how to help your kids through an international relocation, contact us for a free consultation: getfluent@fluencycorp.com or (800) 401-3159.

What Does Corporate Language Training Cost?
Let’s do the Math.

pile of hundred dollar bills used to symbolize the cost savings of corporate language training

As providers of corporate language training, we hear comments and questions like these all the time:

How will providing accent reduction classes to our employees help us make more money?

Will I really help the company’s bottom line by learning Spanish?

We just don’t have time for language training.

This accountant already speaks English well enough. I don’t understand why he wants private lessons. That couldn’t possibly have any impact, right?

Basically, you can boil them all down to one key question:

Will the money we spend on corporate language training deliver a return on our investment?

We are passionate proponents of language training, but we totally understand where companies that ask this question are coming from. Their money and time are finite, their needs are many, and they have to spend wisely.

It is perfectly reasonable to ask the question: “What does corproate language training cost?” But there’s more than ample evidence that the cost of language training is worth it; an investment that pays off many times over.

Lack of Fluency Hurts the Bottom Line

We recently had a meeting with the head of HR for a multinational company that sends Japanese expats to the U.S. to work for two to four years.

We asked her how much time each employee was losing each each week due to communications breakdowns, and expected her to say two hours or so. That’s based on what our clients tell us about how much time an employee saves per week after a few months of language training.

Instead, her answer was shocking: Five hours. Five! A lack of language fluency was costing each of their employees more than a half day per week.

It’s mystifying that a company can say it doesn’t have time for language training even as it knows employees are wasting time because they don’t have the language skills they need.

To make this all a little easier to understand, we’ll consider a hypothetical situation: Let’s say your company has relocated an international employee to the U.S. The employee makes $100,000 a year. And he’s losing five hours a week due to his lack of language fluency.

When you factor in vacation, holidays and a couple of sick days per year, his hourly rate is about $58. So the price tag for those five lost hours per week is about $290.

And then there’s the time the employee’s colleagues are losing because of his communication problems. It’s likely that $290 per week is multiplied by at least 2.

Without training, the employee is likely to make some language progress, but to still have problems over the years. Here’s how that could break down:

YEAR 1
The employee loses five hours per week. If he works 48 weeks per year (after vacation, holidays, etc.), that’s $13,920, based on the hourly rate we cited above. Assuming that his communication difficulties cost other employees time as well, we can safely double that number to $27,840.

YEAR 2
The employee is now losing 3 hours per week, making the annual cost of his lack of fluency $8,352. Again, we have to figure that other employees are affected. So the total lost for year two is $16,704.

YEARs 3, 4 & 5
The employee is gaining some language skills but still has trouble connecting with and being understood by others. For these years, let’s figure a loss of 1.5 hours per week. That’s an annual cost of $4,176 for him, and $8,352 if you consider his effect on other employees. That gives us a three-year total of $25,056.

Conservatively, that Employee’s Lack of Fluency Will Cost the Company $69,600 Over Five Years!

There are also other ways your company could take a financial hit from not providing this employee language training. Without language skills, it’s harder for the employee to make meaningful contributions at work. You’re missing out on the value of his feedback, ideas and full input.

It’s also harder for the employee to feel at home in a new country and to connect with others. All of this makes it more likely that the employee’s relocation will fail and that he will move back home. Since relocation costs typically range from $72,000 to $1 million, this is a costly failure for your company.

There has to be a better way, right?

Corporate Language Training Pays Off Quickly

At Fluency Corp, we believe that a better way is to invest early in language training. Back to your original question: “What is the cost of language training?” Our classes start at $110 per week for the minimum number of hours to make steady progress. That’s $5,280 for 48 weeks of lessons per year.

The goal is that halfway through this year, your employee will be exponentially better at communicating and wasting far less time. After a year of two hours of language training per week, your employee is close to working at 100 percent (if you hired them at a B2 level, which is normal).

So let’s try that yearly breakdown again:

YEAR 1
Here are the first-year costs we’re looking at under this new scenario:

  • $5,280 for a year’s worth of language instruction with a native speaker.
  • $5,568 (2 hours a week x 48 weeks x the hourly rate of $58) for time “lost” to language instruction — although one could argue this isn’t really a loss.
  • An average of 3 hours lost per week, plus the same amount of time lost for the employees who collaborate with him: $16,704.

That brings the Year 1 total to $27,552. We’re already saving a little money. But things are about to get even better! Not to mention, between Year 1 and Year 2 is when most relocations fail – if we add in the success of the relocation, add anywhere from $75,000 to $1 million dollars of savings.

YEAR 2
The $5,280 and $5,568 numbers stay the same. But now the employee is losing only 90 minutes per week, tops, due to language issues. We’ll continue to assume that his colleagues are losing a comparable amount of time. So the total there is $8,352. We’ve cut your company’s Year 2 losses in half compared with the other scenario.

YEAR 3
We’re still looking at $5,280 for training each year and $5,568 for the time the employee spends on the training. As he polishes his accent and further hones his ability to express ideas clearly, he’s wasting (and costing his colleagues) little to no time. Our new Year 3 total is $10,848.

YEARS 4 & 5
The employee now has strong communication skills. No more language training is needed, and no time is being wasted. Your corporate language training cost for these years? Zero.

With Language Training, our new Five-Year Total is $46,752! That compares with $69,600 in the scenario where the employee didn’t get language training, and it’s a 33 percent savings.

In other words, if you had decided that you couldn’t afford language training for the employee, you would be costing your company almost $23,000.

That’s not even taking into the account the cost of a potential failed relocation and of all the employee’s contributions that you’d be missing out on due to his lack of fluency. Language training builds collaboration, productivity and trust.

And that is simply priceless.

 

What Makes Corporate Language Training Affordable?

The way we keep costs down for language training is in our method. We are aiming to get employees and executives fluent as efficiently as possible. No wasted time learning irrelevant vocabulary or working with flashcards. We customize each lesson so your employees are learning what they need to be productive on the job. Emails, presentations, speaking with customers — whatever skills they need to be successful are the things we work on. Visit our FAQ’s page for more details on how language training classes work with Fluency Corp.

We offer corporate language training in cities across the globe. Cities in the U.S. like Chicago, Dallas, Seattle, and Washington D.C. have a number of international business hubs.

Choose from language classes on-site at your offices or online over Skype for employees. Spanish, English, Japanese, Mandarin, and many more languages are available. Contact us for a consultation today at getfluent@fluencycorp.com.

 

 

10 Secrets to Managing your Multilingual Global Workforce

ProlecGE Builds Relationships, Reduces Turnover, with Fluency Corp

ProlecGE Builds Relationships, Reduces Turnover, with Fluency Corp

Why Language Training, Coupled with Assimilation Support, is Just Better

In business, effective communication is essential. When merging a business into a new market in a new country, miscommunication and failed relocations can cost the company hundreds of thousands of dollars in lost productivity, turnover, and leadership members quitting their roles in the new area.

When ProlecGE expanded from Mexico into Brazil, eight employees and their families moved to South America to get their new merger aligned with the company’s goals. Without Fluency Corp providing language training and assimilation assistance, it might not have been as successful.

The company decided to send Ernesto A.D.P. and several other employees – with their families – to establish the new branch within five years.

Ernesto oversees the financials and commercial sales while modifying the existing financial plan to fit Prolec’s corporate structure. There was only one problem: Ernesto, nor any other transitioning employees, spoke Portuguese.

Global Leadership was Causing Division in the Teams

Before Prolec came along, this local company had been managed by another globally based-company. That former parent company had a management team that all communicated in their own native language.

There was a problem, though.

The local workforce speaks just one language: Portuguese. How does a management team communicate with the workforce when they have a language barrier? How does the work effectively get completed?

It doesn’t, without major challenges and obstacles. There was such a discrepancy that the company went through major struggles. To the point where it was no longer looking to be profitable and sold to Prolec.

The new management took an entirely different approach to the local workforce. Instead of showing up and asking the local workforce to learn Spanish, they learned Portuguese.

Disparity Widens between Warehouse and Office Employees

Have you ever attended a work gathering and just felt like you didn’t fit in? Those events are designed for everyone to get to know everyone, but you just hang out with your close co-workers. Imagine if the management was at that barbeque or get-together and spoke a different language than you did. The isolation would be tangible!

In Brazil, many of those working in the factory only speak Portuguese. Because the management teams can speak the same language, it removes that barrier and puts everyone on the same level. Now all positions can interact because language barriers are significantly lessened.

That is because there is more to Fluency Corp than just knowing the language. Because Ernesto, and the other families, had local teachers, they learned the culture, the idioms, and the dialect.

In addition, their training included how to act professionally while in Brazil. Not to mention, helping them connect with their community, new schools for the kids, neighbors, and answering any questions about local utilities, customs and more.

Management isn’t the same around the world. In many countries, it’s much more formal; suits and ties are expected, and a formal manner of speaking is required. Brazil is a much more laid-back country.

Professional dialogue includes a lot of social banter, slang, and a more casual approach.

Without language training with Fluency Corp’s Bellieu Method (keep reading, we’ll fill you in on how that works), Ernesto would have approached business and work parties with a Mexican business approach. It might have been off-putting to Brazilian employees and could have created disparity between the two groups.

But the assimilation support from the language coach helped Ernesto learn not just the right words, but the right actions.

Because he knows how to speak the language and fit into the local culture, he can build better relationships. Those relationships lead to a smoother and more efficient workplace. When the workers are happy, there is less turnover, greater productivity, and job satisfaction increases.

“We may not be entirely fluent yet,” Ernesto admits, “but we can communicate and talk about what they like to talk about.”

This merger, Ernesto believes, will be successful because previous ownership never spoke with the local employees in Portuguese, and there was always a strain between management and those on the ground.

Why Language Training Along with Assimilation is Incredibly Effective

Long before they even transitioned to South America, Prolec enlisted the help of Fluency Corp to train the employees not just what to say, but how to communicate.

Fluency Corp learned about where Ernesto and the other employees would live. Using a worldwide network, local teachers were hired to deliver the lessons. These teachers typically lived within 10 miles of where the employees were moving to. This created a closeness, and they could talk about local topics.

These teachers met with students twice each week for one and a half hours at a time. These lessons weren’t anything like you might experience in an academic language setting, though. Instead, they’re customized to the individual and the local culture.

Ernesto’s teacher grew up in the city that he now calls home. The teacher knows the people, the best restaurants, the dialect, and the colloquialisms.

Using that cultural awareness, the teacher showed Ernesto which radio station to listen to, and developed language lessons around what that station talks about. Some classes would focus on grammar and becoming more fluent and then switch focus to reading books in Portuguese.

After a few book lessons, they would again change focus and revolve around local television shows, podcasts, or other entertainment available only in Portuguese.

By immersing himself in these culturally specific media, Ernesto learned how to speak and (perhaps more importantly) what to speak of. They also role played business situations, and prepared for meetings beforehand.

“There are two soccer teams in this city.” He explains, “Half the city likes one team, the other half likes the other team. Without a culturally immersive language program, how would you ever learn about the teams and how to talk about them? You wouldn’t.” This is where assimilation comes in, and ensures that you feel like you are at home in the new country.

How Fluency Corp Worked with Prolec to Reduce Turnover and Save Money

Language and grammar are important. Any book, app, or program can teach you the proper spelling and sentence structure.

A language class can even help you speak the language.

There is, however, a big difference between speaking and feeling at home. There are so many dialects and cultural idiosyncrasies throughout a country that just knowing how to put a sentence together will limit your ability to truly become a part of the new city.

Long before Fluency Corp was established, founder Micah Bellieu studied languages in an academic setting. For eight years, she took Spanish classes, learning how to conjugate verbs, understand the tenses, and create sentences.

On a trip to Spain, she quickly discovered that knowing grammar rules does not give you fluency or the confidence to speak. She wondered, “What’s the point of putting so much effort into studying a language if I can’t even understand that language or connect with others?”

This led to an idea. Use local teachers to not only teach vocabulary and sentence structure, but also to teach how to use that language in a particular location. It had to go a bit deeper than just that, though. In order for the relocation to be a success, they needed to meet others, feel comfortable, and have a sense of belonging.

Thus, the Bellieu Method was developed. It is a 100% customized training that helps you learn the language to communicate effectively in your environment, so that you can connect with others, be successful at work, and understand the norms around you in your new world.

Fluency Corp and Your Business

Fluency Corp works with every language, in every country, and all around the world. So if you call Micah and her team, and ask for an obscure location, she will say, “give me a few weeks, and we will have a teacher ready for you.”

Then, lessons will involve watching how you speak in meetings—analyzing your speaking style, recommending shows, podcasts, and books, and helping you become fluent in the language and community where you will be immersed.

Moving families to another country is a big investment for a company. Without language and assimilation support, those moves can fail, costing hundreds of thousands of dollars.

Fluency Corp’s training brings about better integration, and companies see more success with this customized immersion-style training.

Are You Looking for Online Individual Language Classes?

Spanish Vocabulary for Schedule and Change of Residence Availability

Spanish Vocabulary for Schedule and Change of Residence Availability

Getting past the first stages of a job interview is hard work. Even more so if it’s for an international position or to a foreign candidate. That first handshaking with no idea of what to expect, those nerve-wracking questions, and the recruiter examining the resume.

It’s no easy task for any of the parts, the recruiter and the candidate. But congrats, you’ve both made it far! You have made a good impression on each other. But now, a key moment of the interview has come: time to talk about schedule and change of residence availability.

This kind of topic can define if someone gets the job or not. You don’t want to make a mistake by asking a completely different question or giving a confusing answer. This could be a possibility if the interview is to a Hispanic person or for a bilingual position. Especially if your Spanish skills are not well polished.

Don’t worry though! Stressing out won’t help, but we will! Fluency Corp has some amazing Spanish vocabulary for you to use at your bilingual job interview and impress everyone! It doesn’t matter if you’re a recruiter or a candidate, we got you covered.

Spanish Vocabulary to Talk About Schedule and Change of Residence Availability

First, here are some words in Spanish that are a must to use in the interview, especially when you discuss availability.

  • Disponibilidad – Availability
  • Cambio – Change
  • Residencia – Residence
  • Horario – Schedule

Obviously, questions are the base of every job interview, and for each question you can have a different answer depending on your lifestyle. So, here is a possible Q&A with variations of answers. If you’re a recruiter, these questions are also a must to see if the candidate is truly the perfect fit for the job and company.

  1. ¿Qué disponibilidad de horario tiene? / What time availability do you have?
    1. Tengo disponibilidad total / I have full availability
    2. Sólo de lunes a viernes / Just from Monday to Friday
    3. Sí, excepto horario nocturno / Yes, except night hours
  2. ¿Cuál es su lugar de residencia? / What is your place of residence?
    1. En Orange County / In Orange County
  3. ¿Tiene disponibilidad de cambio de residencia? / Are you available to change residence?
    1. ¡Absolutamente! / Absolutely
    2. Dentro del estado, sí / Within the state, yes, I do
    3. No, lo siento / No, I´m sorry

Don’t forget about everyday expressions! Just like in English, you’ll also have to use common Spanish expressions during an interview. These work for answering some important questions or to greet and dismiss the other person.

  • ¡Absolutamente! / Absolutely
  • Gracias por su tiempo / Thank you for your time
  • Gracias a usted / Thank you
  • Lo siento / I’m sorry

Want to Cause a Great Impression During a Job Interview? Try Fluency Corp!

The Spanish vocabulary above will absolutely help you during the interview. But if you want to cause a fantastic impression on the recruiter or candidate, you should take Fluency Corp’s Spanish classes.

The more fluent you sound during that first interview, the better impression you’ll cause. And who knows? They might call you back for a second interview.

And you’ll need more than a few Spanish words and phrases to get through that one. Especially if you get the job and have to work with Hispanic coworkers and clients.

Here at Fluency Corp we have native teachers that will help you learn useful vocabulary and become fluent in Spanish. That’s right, we will not just practice your grammar, but also your listening and speaking skills. So, you can actually hold whole conversations in Spanish.

If you’re a recruiter or CEO, keep in mind that we not only have classes for you, but for all your teamwork as well. With our flexible schedules and online or onsite classes, everyone can attend. Plus, every lesson is customized to the job!

Want to learn more about Spanish classes for you or your company? Email getfluent@fluencycorp.com.

Are You Looking for Online Individual Language Classes?