Writing is far more challenging than speaking. Observe and you’ll know. Many more can speak well than who can write well. Even proficient writers face blank-screen syndrome (struggle to get started). Nothing of that sort happens in speaking. (more…)

Before you get into the idioms, I would give you a tip if you want to use them (versus just know the meaning).

It’s relatively easier to remember words than to remember idioms (and proverbs), because idioms typically contain 3-4 or more words. Remembering a string of words in the correct sequence and recalling them in a flash while speaking isn’t easy. (more…)

Not thanking people where you ought to is considered rude.

But why some don’t thank? (more…)

You can’t escape introductions.

When you attend a conference, you introduce yourself to new faces you meet.

When you attend a social function, you introduce yourself.

When you attend an in-house training, you introduce yourself to your colleagues from other offices.

When you attend college, you introduce yourself to new friends.

The first impression you create through your introduction can sometimes have far-reaching impact on your personal and professional life. People can take first impression as the last. And even if they don’t, your introduction may not excite them to carry the discussion further. Imagine, a crucial business lead losing interest because you faltered in your intro pitch, especially when many others were vying for the same pot of gold. (more…)

There are four kinds of skills in any language – reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Reading and listening are passive skills in which you absorb the input (text or voice) passively. Writing and speaking, on the other hand, are active skills in which you produce the output, and therefore are more challenging to master.

Little wonder, most people are looking to learn speaking and writing when they express desire to improve their English. In this post, I’ll cover how to improve speaking and writing for people at two different levels: (more…)