One of the reasons for learning Business English is to be able to negotiate business deals more effectively, persuasively, and powerfully. By mastering Business English negotiation skills, if you speak Business English, you are in a much stronger position to get the best result for the negotiating parties. Since English is so widely spoken, professionals need to be proficient in Business English.
Why Business English Negotiation Skills Matter in Global Deals
Not only is it the “lingua franca” of international trade and negotiations, but most contracts, including those in shipping, corporate compliance, customs documentation, and legal documents, for example, are in Business English. Mastering Business English negotiation skills ensures you can navigate these high-stakes scenarios with clarity and confidence. Indeed, many multinational corporations use Business English as their primary language for internal communication and external interactions.
However, Business English is likely to be spoken differently between larger and smaller companies. Smaller companies, such as start-ups and solo entrepreneurs, might use less formal Business English, while larger companies might use more formal language.
There is no doubt that learning Business English significantly enhances your negotiation skills, whether you are an entrepreneur or are part of a larger organisation. It enables you to communicate more precisely and persuasively than you could if you were not speaking Business English. Since you can present your arguments more confidently and precisely, the risk of misunderstanding or misinterpretation of the other party’s comments is reduced, thereby increasing the likelihood that both parties achieve a favourable outcome. (Entrepreneurs not only have to negotiate deals, but they often have to pitch to potential investors before negotiating.)
These are the tips I read recently that can help in negotiation: (1) Do your research. (2) Know your priorities; on what issues are you prepared to budge? (3) How will the opposing side view your terms? (4) Keep communications open. (5) Even so, there are limits. Know when to walk away.
Taking a Business English course (such as the online course at www.learnbusinessenglish.net) teaches the importance of listening and understanding the needs of the other party and their perspective on matters. These programs specifically refine your Business English negotiation skills by emphasizing cultural awareness and persuasive language. You will learn that picking up and understanding nuances can make a difference. Often, these differences can be cultural. Business English training can help you understand and navigate these differences in communication styles, which is essential for successful cross-cultural negotiations. A recent example of what may be a cultural misunderstanding and misinterpretation is the “disastrous” meeting between US President Donald Trump and the President of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelenskyy. The fiery meeting may have occurred because one party didn’t understand the cultural nuances of the other.
For the most part, speaking fluent Business English will also help to foster strong relationships with clients and partners. This is because clear and effective communication helps to engender trust and rapport, which leads to stronger and more productive relationships. This is especially true if a company is doing business cross-border, whether as an entrepreneur looking to succeed internationally or a larger company looking at international expansion.
Employers everywhere prioritize professionals with sharp Business English negotiation skills, whether you’re seeking a promotion or aiming for a leadership role. Without a doubt, speaking Business English well is going to improve your chances of winning these roles. “Employers everywhere are looking for professionals with strong Business English skills. Why? Because it shows you’re ready to work in an international setting and can communicate effectively with clients, partners, and colleagues”, according to a company that teaches English. Investing in Business English is a no-brainer. Just do it.