Local Author Creates Text Book for Learning Spanish Easily, Effectively

Have you ever wished you could speak Spanish for better workplace communication? An Agoura Hills resident has written a textbook that can help you communicate more effectively on the job.

Michelle Buehring, an ESL (English as a Second Language) teacher for over 30 years, decided to use her language skills to "bridge the communication gap" by self-publishing Work into Spanish.

"The benefits of Spanish proficiency seem to be well worth the effort, since efficient communication on the job is critical when working with Spanish-speaking employees or clients who have limited English-speaking skills," she said.

This book basically is for anyone who would like a basic understanding of Spanish in order to generate simple sentences, she said.

Buehring, who has also written two ESL books, thought that there was a niche for such a book that had yet to be filled.

"I'd seen books out there specifically geared for health care or law enforcement, but this is specifically geared for people in the workplace," she said.

The skill would be important for those who work in hospitality businesses, she said.

In addition, Work Into Spanish is helpful for people who hire Spanish-speaking employees to their homes.

"For example, there is a chapter that's devoted to homemakers who would like to better communicate with housekeepers," she said.

Buehring said she has made the work fun and easy to follow.

"Each chapter starts with a joke in Spanish," she said. "So if you've learned enough [of the translation], you will get it." 

Corporate giants like CNN and Sam's Club have ordered the book, which is currently available at community college bookstores and online.

To order online, go to Buehring's website: http://www.workintospanish.com/