Innovation in Language Learning
A Study of English Language Proficiency and its Influence on Business Success in Kurdistan's Private Sector
Pishtiwan Saber, Salahaddin University, College of Agricultural Engineering Sciences-Animal Resources Dept. (Iraq)
Hadar Faraj, Salahaddin University - College of Agricultural Engineering Sciences-Soil & Water Dept. (Iraq)
Abstract
The study investigates the observed outcomes of English language proficiency on business success in the Iraqi Kurdistan region, a region that it is marked by increasing globalization. The data was collected through out conducting a survey for 125 employees from five leading fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) companies. The research explores the connection between English skills and key business outcomes, considering factors like revenue, marketing effectiveness, and overall growth.
The findings show that there is a strong consensus, over 90% of the employees who participated in the questionnaire perceive English proficiency as significantly beneficial to their work environment, promoting better communication and collaboration. While most of the communications with customer are done in Kurdish language, the study found widespread use of Business English vocabulary and code-switching in internal communications, indicating English has been adopted in the organizational culture. Further analysis also demonstrated that English proficiency contributed to the region’s increased international collaborations.
These results align with existing literature on English as a lingua franca, emphasizing its role in international trade and communication. However, the research acknowledges the potential risk of local languages being overlooked, leading to a cultural homogenization. Since the majority of the employees are characterized as young generations, the research suggests that a younger workforce adapts quickly to new technologies. While most participants agree, there are also some, even in leadership roles, who are uncertain, highlighting the need to train employees. This suggests a need for more training on the benefits of learning English. This study contributes to the understanding of how English language influences business dynamics within a specific regional context.
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Keywords |
Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG), English Language Proficiency, Employees, International Business |
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