Introduction to Global Business English (1) Listening Skills: Asking Someone to Speak Slowly (2)

[Skit B: Good Example]
Good Examples

Ms. A:
(A bit politely)
Let me begin by giving you some details about our company. Our company specializes in producing socks.

Makoto:
I see.

Ms.A:
(Suddenly starts speaking quickly)
That’s why our company logo is made up of a pair of socks. One sock is printed with the letter “W” ( or, simply say, “with a “W” ) which represents our company name. We encourage people to walk more by wearing our product. Therefore, our company motto is “Walk more!” Walk Company was...

Makoto:
(While holding out a hand)
Ah...., I am sorry, but may/can I ask you to speak slowly?

Ms. A:
(As if suddenly realizing)
Oh, I’m sorry. OK, I’ll speak slowly./ go slower.
(Starts speaking slowly)
Therefore, our company motto is “Walk more!” Walk Company was established in 1950. It is based in the USA but we do business worldwide. We are experts in producing different kinds of socks, especially sport socks. Our customers include...

☆☆☆

Moderator
I see, this makes it much easier to understand.

Naruse
It is common for some people to gradually pick up momentum while speaking, causing their speaking speed to increase.

In such cases, the person themselves may not realize they are speaking too quickly, so you should interrupt them again and ask them to slow down.

Also, when meeting someone for the first time and you don't know how they speak, it is a good idea to let them know beforehand that you are not very good at English.

Generally, English speakers, especially native English speakers, are unaware of how important it is for those who are not proficient in English to have them speak slowly.

As for expressions to use when asking someone to speak slowly, the basics are,

“May I ask you to speak slowly?”
(Could you please speak slowly?)

“Could you speak slowly, please?”
(Excuse me, but could you please speak slowly?)

which should be sufficient.

If you are in the middle of a conversation,

“Can you slow down a bit?” ( Good !! )
(Could you slow down your speaking speed a little?)

are also expressions you can use.

As I mentioned earlier, what is important is not the English expression itself, but rather, when you cannot understand, to immediately stop the other person and ask them to speak slowly, without hesitation.

Being reserved is a no-no.

Worrying about whether it is rude to interrupt is, at least in the world of global business communication, more harmful than helpful.

Please keep this in mind.