The importance of learning English is increasing, with the English language learning market predicted to reach $77.9 billion by 2030. While a staggering 1.5 billion people speak it, the English language used in professional settings can be a different art to master.
Corporate English goes beyond basic language proficiency, encompassing vocabulary tailored to specific industries, and exploring business skills such as the art of diplomatic negotiation, persuasive rhetoric, and adept presentation skills.
The absence of such skills creates disadvantages in the workplace.
International research by the University of Queensland reveals non-native speakers require twice as much time for activities, while research by entrepreneur Charles Duncombe found that weaker Business English language abilities have the potential to directly impact revenue, with a single spelling mistake on a website being able to halve sales.
Why invest in business English skills?
Mastering business English empowers employees to proficiently execute tasks such as drafting professional correspondence, conducting meetings and enhancing workplace effectiveness. Employees who undergo such training exhibit increased confidence levels when doing business globally, supporting employees whilst maximizing business benefits.
The benefits of offering business English training
With globalization, the ability to communicate effectively across borders and time zones has never been more crucial. Investing in corporate English language skills helps businesses:
1. Increase market penetration
Whether negotiating contracts, pitching ideas to investors, or expanding into new markets, a strong command of the language enhances a company’s ability to navigate international waters. Business English also impacts one’s professional image in international assignments, reflecting positively on competence. In nations where English is neither a native nor an official language, over two-thirds of employers emphasize its significance for business operations.
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2. Reduce talent shortages
According to a ManpowerGroup study, 75% of employers globally report difficulty filling roles. As companies increasingly rely on global talent to address this shortage, multicultural teams are formed. The common language – typically English, becomes the primary mode of communication. Therefore, English becomes the means to express one’s technical skills and knowledge, as well as to collaborate and build relationships, playing a pivotal role in fostering a positive and productive workplace culture.
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3. Boost customer satisfaction
An exceptional customer experience resonates, making customers feel acknowledged, valued, and respected. Its tangible influence extends to measurable business gains, with a striking 73% of individuals identifying customer experience as a pivotal determinant in their buying choices. Employees who are proficient in the business language can articulate information more clearly and accurately, ensuring customers feel understood and valued.
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4. Foster diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI)
By extending English language training to all employees, we promote inclusivity, ensuring everyone has the tools to participate comfortably in activities and can speak up. Offering language training is also an excellent first step to developing cultural competence. It cultivates trust and respect amongst teams, and enhances engagement and exchange amongst peers, bolstering diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts.
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In conclusion, levelling up your team’s business English skills to thrive (rather than just survive) yields significant benefits to your employees and organization.
Delve deeper into the importance of communication skills for business success here.
How Learnlight can help you upskill employees
At Learnlight, we offer specialized language skills courses to empower professionals with the necessary language proficiency and communication skills.
Personalized learning paths
Through world-class trainers and cutting-edge technology, powered by our blended, flipped classroom learning approach and our proprietary Learnlight Empowerment Method™ we offer solutions tailored to the diverse needs of learners and their jobs.
The Learnlight Impact Framework ensures decision-makers like you can track learning outcomes that link to business objectives, observing how the skills are applied on the job.
Task focused skills
Learnlight offers a diverse array of general language courses for businesses, including active engagement in meetings, diplomatic communication, proficient phone and email correspondence, effective presentations, persuasion techniques, and many more.
Industry focused skills
Our courses are customizable based on your industry, including sectors such as Energy, Fashion, Financial Services, Consumer Goods, Pharmaceuticals, Technology, and more.
Customized content
We provide personalized solutions through custom content, but also through an array of other features. Our AI-powered Fluency Lab, for example, helps learners assess their clarity when speaking in English language, focusing on fluency rather than accent.
Book your demo today to experience first-hand how Learnlight’s language skills training can transform your team’s communication and drive business success in the global market.
And if you’re interested in a premium English language training solution, explore Learnlight’s latest offering in association with Oxford University Press, Aspire.
