Entrepreneurially English - Beyond Standard Business Language

Janpha Thadphoothon

As entrepreneurs navigate the global marketplace, mastering standard business English may no longer suffice. In fact, what they truly need is a nuanced understanding of "entrepreneurial English" — a dynamic blend of language skills and mindset tailored for the startup landscape.

Image: DALLE-2 (2 April 2024)

Why is this proficiency crucial? Simply put, entrepreneurship entails risk-taking, and effective communication in English is no exception. Despite feeling uncertain or insecure, embracing English fluency is a vital step towards becoming a competent and capable entrepreneur. This is particularly evident when engaging with individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds, where English serves as the lingua franca.

This insight was gleaned from unexpected sources, such as Thai taxi drivers, who adeptly navigate conversations using simplified, makeshift English. Despite linguistic limitations, these exchanges often proceed smoothly, highlighting the importance of adaptability and effective communication in entrepreneurial endeavors.

In the dynamic landscape of global business, English serves not only as the primary means of communication but also as a symbol of its widespread adoption for international discourse. As entrepreneurs navigate this terrain, the ability to effectively communicate in English becomes paramount. It emerges as the predominant medium through which individuals with diverse native languages connect and interact, often serving as the sole practical choice (Seidlhofer, 2011).

In this context, entrepreneurs must be adaptive and flexible communicators of English, adept at tailoring their language skills to suit varied cultural and professional settings. Mastery of English not only facilitates communication but also demonstrates a readiness to engage with a diverse range of stakeholders, ultimately enhancing opportunities for collaboration and growth in the global marketplace.

The objectives of communication extend beyond the mere transmission of knowledge or messages; they encompass the establishment and nurturing of cordial and amicable relationships. In the realm of business interaction, success hinges not solely on the exchange of textual data or information, but on the cultivation of strong interpersonal connections. Similarly, when English is employed, particularly in meetings, the significance often lies not in the content of what is said but in the manner of delivery. It is the presence and tone that convey meaning, emphasizing the importance of effective and engaging communication beyond mere words.

The language of love is the language of humanity. Frankl offers one of history's most profound interpretations of love:

Love is the sole means by which one can truly understand another individual at the deepest level of their being. Without love, it is impossible to fully comprehend the fundamental essence of another person. Through love, one gains the ability to perceive the essential characteristics and qualities within the beloved individual. Moreover, love allows one to recognize the untapped potential lying dormant within the other person — potential that has yet to be realized but should be actualized. Additionally, through their love, the caring individual empowers the beloved person to unlock and manifest these latent abilities. By guiding them towards awareness of their potential and encouraging their realization, the loving individual helps to bring these possibilities to fruition.

Communicating effectively in global English requires compassion and empathy. Embracing a mindset of shared humanity is paramount. Despite our individual limitations in English proficiency, we can unite in our efforts to pursue extraordinary results. This concept echoes the sentiments of Viktor Emil Frankl, an Austrian psychiatrist and Holocaust survivor, who spoke of the profound significance of "experiencing other humans."

To truly thrive in the global business arena, entrepreneurs must cultivate not only language skills but also a mindset conducive to cross-cultural communication and collaboration.

References:

Galloway, N., & Rose, H. (2015). Introducing Global Englishes. Routledge.

Seidlhofer, B . (2011). Understanding English as a Lingua Franca. Oxford: Oxford University Press.

Frankl, V. E.. Man Search for Meaning.

Janpha Thadphoothon is an assistant professor of ELT at the International College, Dhurakij Pundit University in Bangkok, Thailand.