5 essential steps for expats looking to speak French

Embarking on the journey of learning French as an expatriate is both thrilling and daunting.

The prospect of mastering a new language can be exhilarating, yet many students find themselves feeling overwhelmed at the beginning of their learning adventure.

From navigating unfamiliar grammar rules to perfecting pronunciation, the path to fluency can seem like an uphill battle.

However, with the right guidance and approach, achieving proficiency in French is not only possible but immensely rewarding.

In this article, we'll delve into the five essential steps for expats looking to speak French with confidence. It's important to note that the duration of these steps varies greatly from one student to the other.

Each individual brings their unique background, learning style, and level of commitment to the table.

So, whether you're just beginning your French language adventure or seeking to refine your skills, join us as we explore the key strategies to help you navigate the path to linguistic mastery.

Learn the basics - 1/5

This foundational step will provide you with the necessary tools to communicate in everyday situations.

With the basics, you will be able to order your food in French without struggle. And this is only one example of your new future skills!

Day after day, you will establish a strong linguistic groundwork, and build confidence in engaging with the French language.

It is your starting point for further French development and fluency.

What are the French basics?

They are essential elements such as basic vocabulary, pronunciation, common phrases, greetings, and introductory grammar rules.

Did you start to learn some basics?

Activate your subconscious listening - 2/5

It's essential to understand that much of the language-learning process is subconscious. So while you learn the basics and then, my best advice will be to activate your subconscious listening.

What is it?

Subconscious listening refers to the process of absorbing a language passively, often without actively trying to understand or analyze it.

Unlike traditional language learning, where you consciously study grammar rules and memorize vocabulary, ... subconscious listening operates on a more intuitive and subconscious level.

How does this magic work?

Expose yourself to French whenever you can. Listen to the radio, watch TV, read a book in French...

If you want to fast-track your French language acquisition, twice a month I share tips and resources to activate your subconscious listening.

Create a French routine - 3/5

Establishing a routine while learning French is crucial for several reasons.

But I would say that the main reason is that consistency is key to French acquisition. By incorporating regular study sessions into your schedule, you create a structured environment that promotes continuous exposure to the language. This helps reinforce your French skills.

Moreover, the routine will help you to manage time effectively. Let's imagine you dedicate 20 minutes per day to French (while commuting maybe). On Fridays, you will accumulate more than 1.5 hours of French study!

Do you need some help to create a routine?

Have a look here

Speak French - 4/5

This is probably obvious but lots of my students learned the basics, the grammar, and lists of vocabulary but still didn't feel comfortable speaking French.

That's because they needed to speak.

Speaking a foreign language is a unique exercise that your brain needs to get used to. Speaking offers the opportunity to put your language skills into practice and develop your ability to communicate effectively.

If you cannot engage in French conversation in your close environment, you can join my conversation classes.

Beginner or intermediate, these classes are a safe place that will help you boost your confidence so you can communicate in French and feel comfortable in the real world.

Enjoy speaking French - 5/5

This is why you put so much effort into your French learning process: enjoy understanding and speaking French. 

Please celebrate the journey, rather than fixating on perfection. Mistakes are an inherent part of the learning process, serving as valuable stepping stones toward improvement.

Don't be ashamed of your accent either as it is part of your personality.

These are ultimately contributing to increased confidence and fluency over time. So, savor the moments of communication and appreciate the beauty of linguistic exploration, knowing that each mistake is a pathway to mastering speaking French.

To continue to improve your French keep going with steps 2, 3, and 4, and follow me for more support.

Hi, I'm Samantha.

I firmly believe that language exposure forms the bedrock of French language acquisition, enabling my students to adapt swiftly to real-world conversational scenarios with confidence and ease.

That's why I prioritize a dynamic and immersive approach to learning French, tailored specifically for adult expatriates in French-speaking countries (mostly Luxembourg, France, and Belgium).