In an increasingly globalized world, communication is an essential pillar of any company’s international success and connection to the world.
Companies are constantly expanding into new markets, collaborating with foreign partners and serving customers from different countries. In this context, the ability to communicate effectively in a common language – especiallyEnglish –has become essential.
For this reason, we share with you four key points that demonstrate the direct impact that language proficiency has on your company’s competitiveness.
1. English in global commerce: a must-have corporate language for international success.
Did you know that English is the most spoken language in the world? According to an Education First study, more than 70% of companies globally consider English as their corporate language.
English provides a common platform for communication between professionals of different nationalities and cultures, allowing a fluency that is difficult to achieve in other languages. However, it is not enough to simply speak the language. Nowadays, it is necessary to have the ability to negotiate, understand cultural nuances, maintain formality and be precise in writing. Thus, it is necessary to invest in learning the corporate language as a business method.
Achieving all these objectives will reduce the risk of losing trade agreements!
According to a Harvard University study, negotiations involving advanced language skills are 30% more likely to succeed due to accuracy in communication.
Source: Statics
2. The cost of language barriers in international companies
Communication barriers represent a significant loss of revenue. A report by the Economist Intelligence Unit revealed that 64% of executives surveyed attribute financial losses to communication failures, such as misinterpretations and/or misunderstandings.
Moreover, language barriers impose additional costs on international operations. The need for qualified translators or interpreters represents a considerable financial investment that is often underestimated.
How to overcome this problem?
To avoid cross-cultural misunderstandings – which according to the International Association of Business Communicators cost companies around $75 million annually – it is crucial to have a thorough understanding of local customs and a solid language strategy formed through business English courses and corporate language training.
3. Effective communication: a business productivity driver for international success.
Tell me how you communicate and I’ll tell you how productive you are!
Studies indicate that employees who are fluent in the language in which they work are approximately 30% more efficient than those who face language difficulties. Clear and accurate communication minimizes waiting times and reduces the possibility of errors, while improving internal company collaboration .
In that sense, corporate English classes also improve language skills in a team by increasing productivity by up to 20%, according to the Boston Consulting Group.
Effective communication will play a crucial role in the internal productivity of your company.
4. Languages and opportunities for professional growth in a global environment
Did you know that professional profiles on LinkedIn that are fluent in English are 29% more likely to receive international job offers?
The mastery and learning of corporate languages -such as English- not only benefits companies, but also boosts employees’ careers, generating opportunities for professional growth.
As remote work takes hold in the workplace, English becomes an indispensable competitive advantage for those seeking to collaborate with international teams and take advantage of global job opportunities.
Source: Cambridge English
Investing in corporate language learning, language training and communication skills not only improves employee productivity and efficiency, but also minimizes risks and maximizes opportunities globally. For organizations that aspire to excel in an international marketplace, communication in English is no longer an added value, but a strategic necessity.
The data is clear: investing in language training is one of the most effective strategies to ensure a company’s relevance, competitiveness and international success in the global marketplace.
