English for Work on Business Trips

Are you planning a business trip? And are you nervous? And are not sure of what to say when you get there? Not sure how to check into your hotel? Not sure what to say to your colleagues when you arrive? These are some thoughts that go through the mind of someone planning a business trip, but have an incomplete knowledge of English. English for work has become ingrained as an integral part of today’s corporate culture to such an extent that it is nearly indispensable. Almost all transactions, be it financial or otherwise are conducted exclusively in English. Contracts and agreements are drafted and signed in English. Transactions are recorded in English, and almost all meetings held in English.

The use of English for work environments has become prevalent to such a degree that English for Business or Business English has become a subject of study. The spread of English as a common language for trade and commercial purposes traces its origins back to the early 12th century when England began to develop overseas colonies. From the new world in America to Canada, India, Africa, the Middle-east, Hong Kong and Australia, English quickly became the common language in all these countries. All trade, shipping and commerce were being conducted in English. Let’s imagine London as the city of the future. A lot of people would attempt to get a part of it and that’s why we should learn this language.

In today’s fast-paced, interconnected world of business and commerce English is the single unifying language that binds all parties together. It is no more evident than that at a business meeting. Whether they are delegates from every corner the globe coming together to discuss mutually beneficial trade, or a foreign company sending its delegates to an English speaking nation for a conference, English is the common language used both in its spoken and written form. As such one requires more than a rudimentary knowledge of English if one is to succeed in such a corporate environment. Hence, the need many students feel to learn English specific to their work, and this too varying from industry to industry.

In particular industries, the knowledge of business terminology in English for work is crucial for the entry into and success in the business. Workers need to understand and command a detailed vocabulary dealing with very specific concepts in minutiae in order to to communicate efficiently and effectively with other professionals in a particular business. Some specialized businesses requiring an in depth knowledge of English includes computing, engineering, science, technology, medicine and law.

An ideal resource for students to begin learning about business is English Club TV. Students can visit www.tv-english.club and view their various programs that address all aspects of business English.