Business English
Business English is a specialized area of English language teaching (ELT) that focuses on teaching English language skills and communication strategies that are relevant to business contexts. Business English is designed for non-native English speakers who need to use English in a professional setting, such as in the workplace, business meetings, negotiations, or presentations. Business English courses typically cover a range of topics and skills, including (but not limited to):
Business vocabulary and terminology
Business writing skills, such as emails, reports, and proposals
Business communication skills, such as presenting, negotiating, and networking
Cultural awareness and cross-cultural communication
Business etiquette and professional behavior
Business English courses may be offered in various formats, including online courses, intensive workshops, or blended learning programs that combine online and in-person instruction. Business English may also be integrated into general English language courses, depending on the learners' needs and goals. In ELT, Business English is an important area of specialization, as English has become the lingua franca of international business and commerce. Business English skills are in high demand among non-native English speakers who need to communicate effectively with colleagues, clients, and partners from different linguistic and cultural backgrounds. By teaching Business English, ELT professionals can help their learners develop the language skills and cultural competence needed to succeed in a globalized business environment.
Videos
Evan Frendo 2021 Plenary Business English - a retrospective and a possible manifesto (IATEFL BESIG)
Visual Thinking & Dyslexia by Martin Bloomfield & Katrin Lichterfeld (IATEFL BESIG)
How to develop Intercultural Competence as a Business English trainer by Kirsten Waechter
BizCom 2018 Evan Frendo - “Teaching English for the international workplace: meeting the challenges”
References & Resources
The Business English Teacher by Debbie Barton, Jennifer Burkat, Caireen Sever
New Ways in Teaching Business English by Clarice Chan, Evan Frendo
English for Specific Purposes by K. Harding
Grammar for Business by McCarthy, McCarten, Clark & Clark
On to one: A teacher's Handbook by P. Wilberg
Teaching English One to One by P. Osbourne