Aims

English is the language of persuasion in a competitive and globalised world, so using English effectively is crucial to business success. In international organisations, operations, marketing, finance and HR functions all require proficiency in English and even domestic industries need people who can communicate confidently using English. An organisation’s reputation increasingly rests on English language skills, whether it is to explain ideas and strategies, to manage change or to market and sell products.

Knowledge into Language

This course stretches participants so that they develop and practise their language skills as far as possible in relevant business and corporate contexts. It is led by highly experienced trainers who ensure that participants develop appropriate language skills. Training is based on formal practice of vocabulary and grammar through reading and listening along with communicative activities such as case studies, structured discussions, role-plays and presentations. Ongoing group and individual feedback is provided throughout.

Topics

Practical language skills, vocabulary and grammar are developed formally and as they arise through the following themes:

  • Communicating effectively face-to-face, electronically/ visually and in writing
  • Writing summaries, reports, minutes, emails, requests and invitations clearly and appropriately
  • Negotiating and using English persuasively with colleagues, suppliers and customers
  • Sales, delivery and payment across borders
  • Welcoming visitors, understanding cultures, norms and other accents of English
  • Explaining and describing operations and giving instructions
  • Using and understanding English in the media, corporate communications, the Internet, social media, press releases and interviews

Language development

  • The finance function, accounts, auditing and reporting
  • Anticipating and handling issues and situations and dealing with emergencies in English
  • Improving external relations and enhancing your organisation’s reputation through the Internet and social media
  • Preparing a CV, applying for jobs and attending interviews
  • Marketing and sales, negotiating on price, capacity and quality.
  • Leadership and managing strategic change, confidence building and persuasion
  • The HR function and industrial relations; staff appraisal, negotiations between unions and management, the regulatory context

Case study

An authentic simulation of an authentic business issue. Recorded role plays with language analysis and feedback

Benefits

  • Improved English language skills in a variety of organisational contexts
  • Increased self- confidence and credibility when using spoken and written English
  • Improved knowledge of formal structure of English
  • Benchmarking your knowledge against other participants in a non-threatening environment

Who Is It For?

Junior and middle managers with responsibility for corporate communications, HR, sales and marketing and operations who wish to improve their practical English language skills in a general business context.

Length

Parts I and II, 60 hours or 30 hours contact intensive and extensive, residential or on-site