CorpComms Magazine

Language and communications training is vital for UK businesses who wish to grow internationally, but almost eight out of ten human resources directors do not consider it important to train native English speakers to moderate their language when speaking to non-native English speakers. 

The research by The London School of English revealed that just four per cent of those surveyed believed that the 'Basil Fawlty' approach to communication by speaking loudly to get the point across is effective.

Almost seven out of ten said that they considered it vital for people within a business to understand the culture of their trading partners. However, less than a quarter are prepared to offer training.

Timothy Blake, chief executive of The London School of English, said: 'The Brits may be reluctant to learn other languages, but this research suggests that we are not even prepared to invest in the training required to adapt our own language, accents and behaviour to help non-native English speakers to understand us.'

Almost all of those surveyed believed that their non-native English speakers were able to communicate effectively in English. 

Blake said: 'In the current economic climate we need to ensure the UK remains a player in the world economy. If we aren't prepared to reach out and communicate with business people from all cultures, countries and backgrounds, we are in danger of dropping further and further down the global business league.'

The research involved 100 directors of human resources, and forms part of a collection of projects centered around language and communications training in the UK.

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