Being a Non-Native Speaker is a Leadership Superpower

In a world where communication is key, the power of language and the ability to convey ideas effectively are invaluable.

But what if the language of business is not your first language?

In the latest episode of the Business English Podcast, we explore an intriguing perspective: being a non-native speaker can actually be a leadership superpower.

My guest, Sebastiano Armeli, Director of Engineering at Upwork, brings his unique insights into this discussion. Armeli, a seasoned leader with a diverse background, shares how non-native speakers possess inherent strengths that can be leveraged for effective leadership.

The Competitive Edge of Being a Non-Native Speaker

Non-native speakers often develop a keen sense of awareness and empathy due to their experiences in navigating a different language and culture. This heightened empathy enables them to connect with team members and clients on a deeper level, fostering a more inclusive and understanding work environment.

Moreover, the journey of mastering a new language instills a level of resilience and adaptability in non-native speakers. These traits are invaluable in leadership, where flexibility and the ability to face challenges head-on are crucial.

Confidence is the Key to Growth

My conversation with Armeli also highlights the importance of confidence. For many non-native speakers, confidence is a critical factor that influences their ability to lead effectively. Building this confidence often requires dedicated effort, and this is where coaching can play a pivotal role.

Coaching helps in refining communication skills, which is essential for clarity and effectiveness in leadership roles. It also provides a supportive environment to practice and hone these skills, building the confidence needed to lead teams and projects.

Explore 1:1 coaching designed to help non-native speakers develop executive presence and leadership communication skills.

Empathy is the Leadership Cornerstone

Empathy emerged as a recurring theme in our discussion. For non-native speakers, understanding the nuances of a second language often translates into being more attuned to the nuances of human interaction.

This empathy allows leaders to create stronger connections with their teams, understanding their challenges and motivations more deeply.

In conclusion, being a non-native speaker in a leadership role is not just a challenge to overcome. It's an asset to be embraced.

The unique experiences and perspectives that non-native speakers bring to the table can enrich leadership styles and enhance team dynamics.

Embracing these qualities can transform the way we approach leadership in a globalized world.

About Sebastiano Armeli

Sebastiano Armeli serves as the Director of Engineering at Upwork, bringing a wealth of experience from his previous roles at renowned companies like Pinterest, PayPal, Snap, and Spotify. 

In addition to his leadership position, he is dedicated to nurturing the next generation of engineering talent through personalized coaching and mentorship, focusing on empowering other engineering leaders and startups.

Connect with Sebastiano: LinkedIn.com/in/sebastianoarmeli