Business English made personal
Interesting articles on learning Business English.
Efficiency over Creativity
Why it is important as a Business English teacher to focus on functional English, work-related vocabulary and the soft skills as telephone calls, emails, and meetings.
(click on the title to read the whole text)
Summary
English has become the dominant language in global business. Many multinational companies, like Airbus and Samsung, are adopting English as their official language to enhance communication across diverse teams and locations. This shift is crucial for companies to succeed in a global economy, even if they are based in countries where English is not the primary language.
For instance, when Rakuten, a Japanese online marketplace, made English its official language, it faced resistance and skepticism from employees. However, CEO Hiroshi Mikitani believed that this change was necessary for the company's growth and international expansion. Despite initial challenges, Rakuten's English policy has led to a more diverse and successful organization.
Implementing an English-language policy is not easy, and companies often face obstacles such as employee resistance, concerns about job security, and decreased morale. However, with careful planning and support from leadership, companies can successfully transition to using English as their primary language.
To ensure success, managers can help employees overcome language barriers by providing language training, fostering a positive attitude towards learning, and offering encouragement and support. Continuous communication and internal marketing can also help maintain employee buy-in and create a global identity within the organization.
Ultimately, CEOs and leaders play a crucial role in enforcing and promoting the use of English in the workplace. By setting an example and demonstrating commitment to the language policy, they can help their companies thrive in a global business environment.