The Intersections of Linguistics and International Business: English as the Lingua Franca of Business

Abdulsalam Aderibigbe

It is interesting how I have connected my past experiences in Linguistics and Languages with my ongoing interest in the field of International Business; two seemingly unrelated fields. If you’ve read my previous articles, you’ll notice this recurring theme of exploring how these areas intersect. I will continue with the same pattern in this article exploring the use of English as the Lingua Franca of Business; within the context of the intersection of Linguistics and International Business

Thanks to Prof. Rachel Wicaksono and her team, back in 2021, I took a course titled Changing Englishes organized by York St. John University in partnership with the British Council . One of the key takeaways from the course was that English, as a global language, is not monolithic. That’s why the title “Englishes” is pluralized—it acknowledges the variations of English spoken and used around the world. This diversity becomes particularly relevant when one considers how English functions as the lingua franca of business. During my International Human Resource Management module at the Surrey Business School, University of Surrey , we studied concepts such as expatriation, international recruitment and selection, global talent management, cross-cultural training and development, international employee relations e.t.c. These concepts often intersect with the role of language in global operations. For instance, companies managing international teams must navigate not only cultural differences but also the challenges and opportunities that arise when English becomes the primary medium of communication.

English as the lingua franca of business offers undeniable benefits. It simplifies communication across borders, serving as a common denominator in international trade, global supply chains, and multinational corporations. Imagine a scenario where a Japanese executive negotiates a deal with a German partner in English, or a Chinese supplier communicates production updates to a Brazilian client using the same language. English provides a shared platform that removes barriers and accelerates decision-making. However, the widespread use of English also has its complexities and implications. First, let’s revisit the term Englishes. The pluralized form reflects the reality that English is no longer a single, monolithic language but a collection of variations shaped by different regions, cultures, and contexts. The way English is spoken in India differs from how it’s used in Nigeria, and both differ from Standard British or American English. This diversity can lead to misunderstandings, even among fluent speakers, as subtle cultural nuances and linguistic styles come into play.

For example, directness in communication which is common in some English-speaking cultures might be perceived as rude or overly assertive in others. Conversely, more indirect or deferential forms of English communication might be misinterpreted as indecisiveness. These variations in communication styles, studied under discourse analysis, are crucial in understanding how language constructs relationships and power dynamics in international business. Another implication lies in the unequal playing field that English dominance can create. Native English speakers often have an inherent advantage in global business contexts, while non-native speakers might feel pressured to conform to language standards that aren’t their own. This dynamic can lead to issues such as linguistic bias, where competence is judged unfairly based on language proficiency rather than actual skills or expertise. It also raises questions about inclusivity: does the dominance of English marginalize other languages and the cultural perspectives they bring? Thanks to Prof. Gbenga Fakuade I understood the concept of Linguistics Imperialism in my days at University of Ilorin, Nigeria . I might write an article on this later. Let's continue!

From my experience studying IHRM, these challenges become even more apparent in areas like expatriation and cross-cultural training. For instance, when companies send employees to work in a different country, language often plays a critical role in their ability to adapt and integrate. Similarly, organizations must design training programs that go beyond teaching English grammar and vocabulary to address cultural nuances and communication strategies. This is where linguistics, with its focus on understanding language as a social and cultural tool, becomes invaluable. By understanding how language shapes relationships and perceptions, linguists can help organizations craft communication strategies that are not only effective but also culturally sensitive. For instance, a linguist can analyze discourse in multilingual meetings to identify where misunderstandings might occur and how to address them. Similarly, they can assist in localizing marketing messages to ensure they resonate with diverse audiences, as I have explained in my previous article.

English as the lingua franca of business is a double-edged sword—it brings people together but can also create divisions if not handled thoughtfully. As businesses continue to globalize, the need for a nuanced approach to language becomes ever more critical. Understanding the complexities of language is not just an academic exercise; it’s a vital tool for fostering inclusion, collaboration, and innovation in the workplace. If international businesses embrace the diversity of “Englishes” and use language as a bridge rather than a barrier, they can explore the full potential of global teams and create a more equitable business world.

Feel free to share your thoughts on this article. Does any of the points resonate with you? Are there any specific areas you would want me to discuss in my next article? Feel free to share.