Business English is the name given to the kind of English you’ll need if you want to do well in business. It’s different to conversational English, which is the kind of English you’d use to chat to your friends, as it’s more formal and usually has lots of language that’s not used in everyday speech. Business English will teach you the phrases and vocabulary you’ll need to write memos, letters, emails, reports and business plans as well as the spoken English you’ll need to discuss ideas and give presentations in English.
But, why do you need English at all? Well, it is also the most widely spoken language and is the official language of 54 countries, with many more using it as a second language. In fact, English is currently spoken as a second language by around a third of the population.
It is also used in an official capacity by the European Union and United Nations. The spread of English has also been influenced by the internet, which has played a huge role in the way businesses trade internationally, which has lead to English becoming the ‘go-to’ language for most companies. Miron Abramson states in his article ‘Why is Learning Business English so Important’ that:
• “Three-quarters of the world’s mail, telexes and cables are in English.
• More than half of the world’s technical and scientific periodicals are in English
• English is the medium for 80% of the information stored in the world’s computers
• English is the language of navigation, aviation and of Christianity
• Five of the largest broadcasting companies in the world (CBS, NBC, ABC, BBC and CBC) transmit in English, reaching millions and millions of people all over the world”
With this rise in demand for English many schools, such as those in Japan, now teach it as part of their core studies. But, what can you do if you didn’t learn it at school but you want to do well in business? You’ll have to take it upon yourself to learn and our course is the perfect place to start. So, if you haven’t already, read through the course prospectuses and get yourself enrolled – we’ll give you the tools you need to help you achieve your business ambitions.
