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Obviously is the sign or action based language we will use.
Many a times we come across guests who don't speak the same language as we do. The most important aspect her is to make them feel comfortable by acknowledging and take intrest in what they want to convey. We can deploy various methods such as use of pen and paper, use of technology (such as google translater), we may also call someone who knows that language. Here the catch word is to be patient and respectful.
First of all, I will try to understand what they are saying and get myself prepared asap to understand their language. by the language barrier is not the rocket science that could create difficulty for me.
First things first. Smile. Greet. Be polite and accommodating. Let the guests feel that they are warmly welcome. Surely, we can always find ways to interact for a minute or two, just like Hi Hello and How are you. After we set the mood or even during the interaction, let us utilize the internet. The power is in our hands. We are fortunate that this globalization gives us all the access. Its only on us how are we going to manage it.
Simply we can apologize to the guest saying that we do not know the language they are speaking and can ask if they are comfortable speaking in English and can continue with speaking English with them.
In the absence of staff that can act as translator, my first instinct would be to use online language translators for basic words like apologies, unavailability of translator etc. With cautious approach and all ears, I would try to grasp what the customer says and would try to pictorially portray my understanding.
The best option would be to use any online translator, if the customer is open for such a mode of communication.
