Finding My Voice: Communicating Clearly Beyond Just Language

When I moved to Canada as an immigrant, I wasn’t worried about language. I had been working professionally in English for almost ten years. I had studied in English. I even majored in English Literature— in English. Speaking the language wasn’t new to me.

But very quickly, I realized that speaking English and expressing myself clearly in a new cultural context were two entirely different things.

Lost in Translation—Even in English

At work, I began noticing something unsettling. In meetings, I would share my thoughts, but they didn’t always land the way I intended. My ideas seemed to get lost, or worse—misunderstood. In presentations, I would structure my arguments well, but my delivery didn’t have the same impact as my colleagues'. I wasn’t struggling with vocabulary or grammar, yet I still felt unheard.

That’s when it hit me: communication is not just about what you say, but how you say it.

Beyond Words: The Art of Expression

Language fluency goes beyond sentence structures and perfect grammar. It’s about delivering a message in a way that resonates with others. The way we express ourselves—our tone, body language, pacing, and emphasis—determines how well our message is received.

This realization changed everything for me. I started paying closer attention to how I spoke, not just what I said. I observed how native speakers used intonation to convey confidence, how they structured their thoughts differently, and how their body language reinforced their words.

Research supports this. According to Mehrabian’s communication model, only 7% of communication is based on words, while 38% is tone of voice and 55% is body language (source). Similarly, studies have shown that effective communication is essential for professional success, with nonverbal cues significantly influencing how messages are perceived (source).

Bridging the Gap Between Language and Communication

Through trial and error, I learned to refine my communication style. I adapted my tone for clarity, adjusted my pacing to keep listeners engaged, and used body language to reinforce my points. The result? I became more confident in meetings, more persuasive in presentations, and more engaged in everyday conversations.

This is what I hope to share with you.

Mastering a language is more than just memorizing vocabulary—it’s about learning how to use it effectively. Whether you’re preparing for a job interview, leading a team, or simply hoping to connect better with others, expressing yourself clearly is key to making a lasting impact.

Ready to Find Your Voice?

If you’ve ever felt misunderstood despite speaking English fluently, you’re not alone. The good news? You can improve. By focusing on how you communicate—not just the words you use—you can gain the confidence to express yourself clearly in any situation.

Let’s work together to help you make an impact, both socially and professionally. Book a session today, and let’s start this journey together.