The importance of English for Work & Business
In the 21st century we live in a truly global society, where communication with almost every part of the world is possible. The spread of English as the language of international business has made it more important than ever for people working with colleagues, clients and partners from other countries to understand each other, so that they can form effective and productive working relationships.
In order to meet the demands of modern employers, everyone from university graduates to senior managers must be able use English for work. Effective internal and external communication is essential to the success of any business, but professionals who need to communicate with each other as non-native English speakers can greatly benefit from learning Business English.
What is the difference between Business English and General English?
The truth is, there are probably more similarities than differences. They both require the development of core skills in fluency, reading, writing and listening, the application of linguistic principles and, of course, plenty of hard work. It is important to have a good basis of General English to be able to communicate effectively. However, Business English courses focus on particular vocabulary, topics and skills that are applicable to the workplace and enable you to communicate accurately. Here are some examples:
- making phone/conference calls
- doing presentations
- taking part in meetings
- being involved in negotiations
- writing emails/reports
You will also be able to concentrate on topics that are relevant to your industry or company, which could include law, finance, medicine, IT, Marketing or Human Resources, while simultaneously enhancing your General English skills.
Small group courses help you to practice participating as if you were in a work meeting.
How will a Business English course help me?
By studying Business English you can improve your overall English language ability while targeting areas that will help you achieve your goals at work. These could be anything from starting on your career path, looking for a promotion, pushing for a pay rise or simply feeling more confident in your role. Whatever your reasons may be, learning Business English can contribute to your professional progress, not to mention being rewarding and enjoyable.
Study English for Work & Business in Edinburgh
ECS Scotland has been providing English for Work & Business courses for international professionals in Edinburgh for over 25 years.
Since we began, much has changed in the way that business people work and communicate with each other. However, what remains the same is our commitment to providing first rate tuition for clients throughout the year, in a variety of formats and levels. Our fully qualified teachers have extensive experience of teaching business professionals from all over the world and are happy to create bespoke learning programs for each individual. Many teachers come from a professional background and also have working experience in business.
Edinburgh is one of the most beautiful cities in the world, rich in history, culture and an international centre for finance and business. It is an ideal base for exploring the rest of Scotland and the perfect place to study Business English.
What type of Business English courses are available?
Business English courses are available as a Combination Course. These courses combine 10 hours per week in a small group (maximum 5 students) general speaking & listening fluency class, with 5, 10 or 15 hours of 1-to-1 Business English lessons focusing on the specific business language you need. You will be given a needs analysis form and a Zoom call before your arrival in Edinburgh and we will ask you to tell us what you want and need.
If you require an intensive Business English course, ECS Scotland can provided Individual Tuition (1-to-1) Business English tuition for the whole of your course.
The 1-to-1 Business English classes will be designed 100% around you and your language needs. We use a variety of authentic material as well as specific material for learners of English. Many clients also bring examples of their own work to practise with, such as authentic reports, presentations or email correspondence. Courses are available for 10 to 30 hours per week in our school in Edinburgh or in blocks of 5 to 20 hours live online at a time suitable for you.
English for Communication at Work is a 20 hours per week small group course (maximum 5 students) focusing on communication strategies and cross-cultural theory. The 20 hours of group classes can be combined with 5 or 10 hours of 1-to-1 classes if you also want to focus on specific areas related to your particular work.
