In the realm of international business, English has become the prevailing lingua franca (a language used between people not sharing the same native language to facilitate communication), bridging the communication gap among individuals of varying native languages. The primary objective is to ensure seamless collaboration among colleagues, clients, and customers, all in pursuit of achieving desired outcomes or goals. So, how can companies maintain linguistic consistency among their multilingual and multicultural teams? The answer might lie in the application of what’s known as “Global English.”
What is Global English?
“A Global English approach is similar to using what is termed “plain language,” or jargon-free language. For example, instead of saying “we need their buy-in,” you could say “we need their support.” However, Global English goes one step further than plain language by including cultural nuances, such as etiquette,” (Bullock & Sanchez). This refined form of written and spoken English enhances clarity and accuracy in global scenarios. According to these authors, an effective way to communicate in multinational teams can be achieved by prioritizing clarity over idiomatic expressions; discarding abbreviations that can be misinterpreted, opting for literal expressions in place of culturally dependent language; and fostering connections through empathy and avoiding jokes that might fall into insensitive humor.
Benefits of Adopting Global English in a Global Market
Any company engaged in a global market with partners and customers in multiple countries can benefit from adopting Global English. This opens the door to a broader talent pool worldwide, enriching the workforce with highly skilled professionals. English is a prominent example of a global language in the modern world, its influence extends into diplomacy, science, and technology. Thus, integrating a common language can create spaces for international opportunities, while also mitigating the risk of misunderstandings.
“Rather than making English sound like other languages or over-formalizing it, writing with a global audience in mind clarifies written English so that anyone can understand. That includes native speakers,” (United Language Group).
The Necessity of Language-Related Training
Effective communication is a challenge even among those who speak the same language. Therefore, the advantages of a global language are evident. However, a survey conducted for the American Council on Teaching of Foreign Languages (ACTFL), suggests that American employers should not take for granted the English skills of their customers, colleagues, or vendors. Recognizing the necessity, companies should invest in language-related training given their high dependency on bridging foreign language gaps. Operating at a global scale means companies must be sensitive to cultural differences and consider offering language support to employees for whom English is not their first language. Using a Global English approach can simplify processes, and proficiency in foreign language skills which will contribute to the company’s ability to leverage its global networks and nurture a positive corporate culture.
The bottom line is that communicating clearly affords companies an opportunity to reach a more extensive and diverse audience, and potentially boost revenue—which is the ultimate goal. Language is a living, dynamic entity, that is always changing. Employing various strategies to adapt to the global market’s demands and facilitate swift problem-solving is paramount. Your company can be a beacon of innovation by upgrading the language skills of your workforce. Connect with Language Testing International (LTI) today. LTI provides legally defensible language credentials in over 120 languages, each tailored to accurately assess an individual’s specific proficiency level. With LTI’s remotely proctored tests, language assessments are accessible anytime, from anywhere in the globe.
Sources
American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages (ACTFL) and the Lead with Languages Campaign commissioned Ipsos Public Affairs, with the support of Pearson LLC and Language Testing International. (2019). “Making Languages Our Business: Addressing Foreign Language Demand Among U.S. Employers.” https://www.actfl.org/uploads/files/general/MakingLanguagesOurBusiness_FullReport.pdf
Bullock, Dan, Sánchez, Raúl. “What’s the Best Way to Communicate on a Global Team?” Harvard Business Review. March 22, 2021. https://hbr.org/2021/03/whats-the-best-way-to-communicate-on-a-global-team
United Language Group. “What is Global English?” https://www.unitedlanguagegroup.com/blog/strategy/what-is-global-english
