How to split time fairly in a language exchange
Agree on the switch before the call. If one language consistently takes over, schedule separate sessions or make the person who needs more practice go first next time.
Put both languages on the calendarGive each person a task, not just half the clock
Try: “Can I explain my commute in German first, then you tell me about your weekend in Spanish?” Agree how you’ll signal the switch. Finish the sentence when the timer goes rather than letting the whole story run into the other half.
Reset without keeping score
When one person is more fluent, the pair may drift into their stronger shared language. Name it kindly: “We switched to English to fix one word. Can we go back to Spanish for this story?” If the pattern keeps repeating, try alternating the language of entire calls. Revisit the arrangement after two meetings and check that both people want to continue.