Since I move to Europe, I notice that many nations here did learn a second language in school but could not speak or have a conversation. For example, the British may have learnt German or French, or the Polish learnt English.
There is a strong drive to learn a new language especially if you are migrating to a foreign country with a different language.
I took 2 years to learn German to a B2 Level while working and living in Singapore before I move to Europe. Somehow I ended up in Poland for studies, thus the need to learn Polish now.
Here are some quick tips (follow through and build your confidence):
Tip 1: Join weekly language meetup in your city
In almost any city these days, you could find a language meetup through facebook events page. Do not be afraid of your low conversation skills, just start to meet other native speakers and talk to them with mix languages. As you get better, you will use the native language. You would even find new friends there. You could then meet them for coffee or movie. The key here is to use the language actively in daily live.
Tip 2: Whatsapp them in their language
It is easy to just message them in a common language you both may know. But it will accelerate your language skill if you start texting them in their native language. Being proactive in doing this will quickly make you learn faster about grammar and build strong relationships too.
Tip 3: Listen to Podcast, Music, Movies, Plays
The struggle of speaking to a native speaker is that you will not understand them if they speak fast for you to comprehend. The best way to train your listening skills is to immerse yourself in their media.
1. Spotify - Music, Podcast from stories and talkshows to all kinds of topics
2. Movies - Cinema, Netflix
3. Plays - Concerts, Live shows
4. Youtube - Subscribe to native youtubers that you enjoy listening to.
Tip 4: Read
Start reading their native news website, borrow or buy fiction books.
Tip 5: Perfecting your language fluency and proficienct
1. Language Assessment Books: Practice your grammar on assessment books base on your language level.
2. Hire a personal tutor / Join a class: If you really need the extra help or motivation, tutors and classes are structured forms that you should consider.
Most of my tips are easily free to do except for 2 or 3 of them. If there is a will, there is always a way.