In my businesses, communication is non‑negotiable because we’re in and out of people’s homes every day. I’ve had highly skilled guys apply who could do beautiful tile work or solid repairs, but if they can’t clearly communicate with clients or my team, it becomes a liability.
For example, in my flooring/tile and handyman work, I need someone who can explain issues, get approvals, and update customers without me having to translate every step. Same with my pool service side, if a tech can’t communicate a safety issue, a chemical problem, or a repair need, that’s a real risk.
Skill matters, but so does clarity. I wouldn’t disqualify someone just because English isn’t their first language, but I would need to see that they can communicate well enough to keep jobs moving, avoid mistakes, and maintain the customer experience. If the language barrier slows down the workflow or creates confusion, it’s not the right fit for the role.
