Research
With globalization, the communication gap is growing.
Business today is conducted on a global scale, and in order to succeed, employees must be able to work together and communicate efficiently
and effectively across borders and cultures. However, a recent study on the globalization of English revealed the significant challenges that companies and individuals face with English language competence. The research points to a huge and growing English skills gap within global corporations:
- 91% of employees say English is critical or important for their current jobs.
- Only 9% say their current English skills are sufficient.
In addition to the need for English in employees' current jobs, there is also a significant requirement for English skills in order to move up in the organization:
- 89% of employees state they are more likely to advance in their company if they can communicate effectively in English.
And, the need for English is pervasive. It is critical for all levels of the organization,
present across a number of business situations, and required for both internal and external communications.
We invite you to read the full report of our research findings.
We have people spending hours reading English language emails. If they don't have good English skills, that's probably wasted time.
—Jeffrey Barnes,
Chief Learning Officer, General Electric (China) Co., Ltd.