The Top 5 Skills Employers Want (But Aren't Getting From Their Executives) - EP. 12

EPISODE SUMMARY

Business English skills companies want their employee to have are lacking - the Nippon.com survey of large Japanese employers showed 82% considered English as an important skill in the workplace but only 65% were satisfied with their employee’s ability. Further, communications skills were ranked at 80% important but a small 35% were satisfied with their employee’s level.

The podcast has notes on the five areas where an employee can increase their skills.

How can you improve your skillset?

 

EXAMPLE CONTENT

Five Things Employers Wish Their Employees Knew About Business English

1. Clarity and Precision Matter

• • Why It's Important: In business, clarity and precision are crucial for effective communication. Misunderstandings can lead to errors, missed opportunities, and costly mistakes.
  • What Employees Should Know: Use simple, direct language. Avoid jargon and overly complex sentences. Be clear about your message and what you need from the recipient.

FREE PDF OF THE LESSON WITH BONUS CONTENT

You can download the PDF of notes for the episode. The PDF's include detailed notes on the subject, a quiz and lyrics to the songs (I write songs using words and phrases from the podcast for some of the topics).

Want more Business English tips? Join the Business English Executive Coaching Club. Learn the English you need for business (but you didn’t learn in school). What you get as a free member:

> Access to the podcast topic with detailed notes on the subject, a quiz and lyrics to the songs (I write songs using words and phrases from the podcast for some of the topics)

> Career planning tips

> Bonus resources on professional English

> First to know about new lessons

> Special discounts and offers

Click on the link below to get your free learning material:

BUSINESS ENGLISH PODCAST TIPS

 

HOW CAN YOU IMPROVE YOUR BUSINESS ENGLISH?

Employers want their staff to have higher "soft skills" in making presentations plus small talk for success with colleagues and clients.

What is your plan for 2025 and how I can help you make a career plan?

Say hello on LinkedIn: Business English Success Coaching

Get your free Presentations Skills course and Small Talk, Big Results business conversation course by sending an email to me at william@williampittsbusinessenglish.com. 

 

EPISODE NOTES

Five Things Employers Wish Their Employees Knew About Business English

1. Clarity and Precision Matter

• • Why It's Important: In business, clarity and precision are crucial for effective communication. Misunderstandings can lead to errors, missed opportunities, and costly mistakes.
  • What Employees Should Know: Use simple, direct language. Avoid jargon and overly complex sentences. Be clear about your message and what you need from the recipient.

2. Cultural Sensitivity and Professionalism

• • Why It's Important: Business English isn't just about language; it's about understanding cultural nuances and maintaining professionalism. This fosters better relationships and collaboration.
  • What Employees Should Know: Learn the cultural norms of your colleagues and clients. Use polite forms of address and be mindful of different communication styles and customs.

3. The Importance of Tone

• • Why It's Important: The tone of your communication can significantly impact how your message is received. A positive, respectful tone can build rapport and trust, while a negative tone can damage relationships.
  • What Employees Should Know: Be aware of how your tone comes across in both written and spoken English. Aim for a professional yet approachable tone, and be especially careful with humor and sarcasm, which may not translate well across cultures.

4. Email Etiquette

• • Why It's Important: Email is a primary mode of communication in business, and proper email etiquette ensures your messages are taken seriously and responded to appropriately.
  • What Employees Should Know: Use a clear and concise subject line. Start with a polite greeting, be direct yet polite in the body of the email, and end with a courteous closing. Proofread for errors before sending.

5. The Power of Listening and Asking Questions

• • Why It's Important: Effective communication is a two-way street. Listening well and asking the right questions can prevent misunderstandings and demonstrate respect and engagement.
  • What Employees Should Know: Practice active listening. Pay attention to what is being said and show that you understand by summarizing and asking follow-up questions. Don’t hesitate to ask for clarification if something is unclear.

These elements of business English not only improve individual performance but also contribute to a more efficient, respectful, and collaborative workplace. By mastering these aspects, employees can enhance their professional image and effectiveness in a global business environment.

HOW CAN YOU IMPROVE YOUR BUSINESS ENGLISH?

What is your plan for 2025 and how I can help you make a career plan?

Say hello on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/willliampittsbusinessenglish/

Get your free Presentations Skills course and Small Talk, Big Results business conversation course by sending an email to me at william@williampittsbusinessenglish.com. 

Want more Business English tips? Join the Business English Executive Coaching Club. Learn the English you need for business (but you didn’t learn in school). What you get as a free member:

> Career planning tips

> Bonus resources on professional English

> First to know about new lessons

> Special discounts and offers

https://william-pitts-business-english-coaching.kit.com/3a6a623b6f