If you work in an international environment, English is most likely the language of communication between you and your colleagues; or at the very least, between you and your clients! Mastering English might just be your key to success and career progression. Yet, while understanding and being at a strong level of general English is crucial to work in an English-speaking workplace, that might not be enough.
Why Business English?
Business English is a specialised subset of the language that focuses on the communication needs of professionals in various business fields. Communicating in business is about more than just terminology and business jargon.
It is also about understanding why someone would say something but mean another. After all, in the business world, there is nuanced meaning when someone says something polite but yet means it to a more serious degree.
Business English is tailored for working professionals who need to use the language in a complex environment of culture, responsibility and duties.
The importance of effective communication in the workplace
Comprehension is the act of processing and understanding information. English comprehension becomes an ever more important goal when living in a place with the language in active use. Misunderstandings, conflicts and errors might fall on you for taking action on communication in English you did not understand correctly.
This is why we believe tasking yourself to learn Business English should be your new professional priority:
1. Connect with your business clients and colleagues in English
The most significant advantage of learning Business English is more authentic and grounded communication with your colleagues and clients. Business communication is often more formal and structured than general communication, requiring different language skills. These include persuading someone’s opinion, confidently delivering presentations, and even writing emails with clear and concise messaging, yet remaining respectful and polite.
2. Learn Industry-specific vocabulary for your business
Each industry has its own technical terms, acronyms, and phrases not commonly used only used in a business context. Professionals must learn and use this vocabulary to communicate effectively with their colleagues and clients.
3. Get used to formal language.
Business communication is often more formal and structured than general communication, so professionals need to be able to use appropriate language in different situations. This includes using formal greetings, avoiding contractions, and polite language to convey respect and professionalism.
4. Enhanced career opportunities and employability
It will help you sound more serious and competent to your native English-speaking collogues. Learning business English can also enhance career opportunities and employability. Many global companies require their employees to have excellent English communication skills, particularly in finance, marketing, and international business.
Join our Free Business English Masterclass and learn everything you need to know about having Meetings in English at work. You’ll be instructed by our Head of Academics, Fiona Cox.
To learn more about our Business English Skills modules click here, or contact us with your questions. We are happy to help!