English as a Second Langauge Problems in the Workforce

Current Situation
Productivity is suffering in many Australian workplaces because employees from non English speaking backgrounds do not have adequate English language skills in their specialised area. In many cases, employees have not formally studied English since high school and they have forgotten the basics of English grammar, speaking and writing. Without personalised analysis and correction, their errors become reinforced and difficult to address.

Common English Mistakes
• Mispronunciation of sounds, words and sentences
• Confusion of verb tenses when speaking and writing
• Inappropriate use of common expressions and phrases
• Inability to understand idioms and colloquial English
• Difficulties with numbers, dates, acronyms and abbreviations
• Translation of inappropriate phrases from the native language into English

Effects in the Workplace
• Clients are confused with poorly written emails
• Reports include numerous language mistakes
• Poor communication by telephone
• Lack of confidence in internal and client meetings
• Reliance on limited phrases for a range of situations
• Inability to give subtle messages when speaking or writing
• Use of ‘out-of-date’ English
• Frustration felt by native English speaking colleagues and clients
• Time loss when native English speaking colleagues act as ‘teachers’

Reasons for Difficulties in Getting Help
• Language schools offer generic courses that don’t suit employee needs
• Language schools prefer to offer large class sizes
• Self-study materials including books, CDs and websites don’t give feedback
• Non-qualified native English speakers can’t correctly analyse language mistakes
• Lack of time outside work to study a lengthy formal course

Professional English Program

Excellent communication skills are critical in the modern workforce. Almost every new job advertisement these days includes the line: Excellent communication skills are essential. Some of the benefits of having strong writing, speaking and reading skills include: improved workplace safety, higher productivity and improved teamwork.

In many cases, however, employees are lacking the basic language skills that are deemed essential. According to the Industry Skills Council 2011 report, ‘No More Excuses’, approximately half of working age Australians suffer from problems related to language, literacy and numeracy (LLN).

The report provides the following reasons for the situation:

• inadequately prepared workforce entrants
• limited access to LLN expertise
• an ageing workforce
• increasing use of technology
• increasing compliance requirements
• demand for higher level skills

Edutec Training and Development provides a solution to this issue. As part of our Professional Language Program, we offer:

1. Needs analysis testing of employees with LLN issues
2. Programs tailored for staff from English and non-English speaking backgrounds
3. Training in professional writing, reading, speaking, listening, numeracy and grammar
4. Targeted training that is effective for the specific needs of each workplace
5. On-site or online training delivery for better outcomes and convenience
6. Regular assessment and management reporting to demonstrate trainee competence and progress

To arrange an appointment with one of our consultants, or for more information about the Professional English Program, please contact: info@edutectraining.com or call 0433 359 990.