Have you ever said, “I suggest we discuss about this topic” in an English meeting?

If so, you’ve experienced ‘Denglish’—when German sentence structures sneak into English conversations. (It’s like wearing a stylish English suit but standing in a distinctly German pose.)

Why does this happen?

It’s all about brain overload. When you speak English under pressure, your brain juggles ideas, translations and grammar checks all at once.

Naturally, it falls back on German patterns like:

• Preposition Mix-Ups: “I think about over the solution” instead of “I’m thinking about the solution.”
• False Friends: Using “become” instead of “get” (from “bekommen”).
• German Word Order: “I have yesterday met my colleague” instead of “I met my colleague yesterday.”

What’s the fix?

Stop translating and start thinking in English patterns. Learn chunks like “Let’s discuss this next week” or “I suggest…” and practise using them naturally.

Want to break free from ‘Denglish’? Let’s work together to make your English as sharp as your expertise.

Learning new words doesn’t have to be boring. Let me show you four powerful strategies to expand your vocabulary fast:

1. Create word families. For example, transform ‘create’ into ‘creative,’ ‘creation’ and ‘creativity.’ This understanding of word patterns unlocks countless new terms.
2. Use vocabulary apps daily. Set reminders for practice. Learn five new words each day. Review words before sleeping.
3. Immerse yourself in English. Watch YouTube with subtitles. Dive into books, blogs, articles or even song lyrics. Reading exposes you to new words in context, making it easier to remember and use them.
4. Use them or lose them.
   Practise new words in conversations, emails or even text messages. The more you use them, the more they’ll stick.

The key? Consistency beats intensity.

Start small: 15 minutes every morning. Celebrate small wins. Track your progress.

Remember: Quality over quantity. Better to master 10 words perfectly than half-learn 50.

P.S. What’s your favourite way to learn new words? 🤔

P.P.S. Tell me about your best vocabulary learning app. Let’s help each other grow.

Want to look smarter on your next Zoom or Teams call?

It’s simpler than you think—just add books and plants to your background!

Here’s the fun part: A study from Durham University in the UK found that people rated video callers with books and plants in their background as more competent and intelligent.

So, if you want to make a good impression, those items could be the key.

It’s an easy (and inexpensive) way to boost your professionalism on a call. Books give the vibe of knowledge, while plants add a fresh, natural touch that makes you look calm and composed.

And if you’re thinking, “But I don’t have any books or plants nearby,” don’t worry—here’s a little hack: print out a picture of books or plants and tape it to the wall behind you. Just make sure it looks casual, not too staged.

So, the next time you’re preparing for a video call, consider your background. A little greenery and a few well-placed books could make all the difference.

Got any other video call tips? I’d love to know.

You don’t need to sound like a native speaker to succeed in business English.

The trend of teaching “native-level fluency” as the ultimate goal is everywhere, but here’s the problem: it’s unrealistic, unnecessary—and often discouraging. It makes learners feel like they’re failing if they don’t sound perfect.

Here’s the truth: You don’t need to sound British, American or Australian. You need to sound clear, confident and professional. That’s what your colleagues, clients and partners care about.

Instead of striving for “native-level perfection,” focus on what matters:

✔ Speaking clearly and confidently.
✔ Using the language that helps you get your work done.
✔ Making meaningful connections.

Let’s leave perfectionism behind and celebrate progress.

Picture yourself in a café in Singapore: A German businessman orders his latte in English from a Chinese barista, while an Indian IT specialist chats with her Brazilian colleague at the next table—also in English!

Did you know? Only 2 out of 10 English speakers today grew up speaking English at home. That means most people using English learned it just like you—in school, at work or through films and music.

Here’s what’s really interesting: When a Spanish doctor talks to a Japanese engineer in English, they often understand each other better than when a native English speaker joins the conversation. Why? Because they use simpler words and speak more clearly.

Some tips for better international English:

• Speak slowly but clearly
• Use basic words instead of complicated ones
• Avoid idioms like “piece of cake” or “raining cats and dogs”

The best part? You don’t need to sound like a native speaker. Your German accent is part of who you are in our global English-speaking world.

Ready to join the international English conversation with confidence? Let’s talk!

Book your free session now and discover how fun speaking English can be. 🌟

Does this sound familiar?

You’re confident presenting data in English, but the moment someone asks, “How was your weekend?” you freeze.

Don’t worry—you’re not alone. Many of my German clients feel the same way.

In Germany, business conversations are direct and efficient. Small talk can feel unnecessary or even fake. But in English-speaking cultures, it’s essential—it builds trust and relationships.

Here’s where we start:

1. The Weather Plus: Comment on the weather and add a personal twist.
   👉 “This rain is crazy! It reminds me of my last trip to London.”
2. The Power of “Actually”: Add detail to basic answers.
   👉 Instead of “Fine,” try, “Actually, it’s been a great day—we’ve just launched a new project.”
3. Easy Questions:
   👉 “What was the highlight of your weekend?”

Remember: small talk isn’t small—it’s the key to connection. Try one of these tips next time and see how it transforms your conversations.