English: The De Facto Language
When it comes to the language used to communicate in business, technology, science and other disciplines, English is considered the de facto global language or “lingua franca” (free language) used throughout the world. But just like all languages, there are different dialects, appropriations, and applications of the English language.
So, what is “Global English”?
The Harvard Business Review defines Global English as “a type of English focused on clarity (with a limited number of idioms and cultural references). Simply put, it’s a style of written and spoken English that’s been optimized for clearer and accurate communication on global teams.” There are no classes for native English speakers to learn how to rethink their use of everyday language to make it fit expectations of Global English – combining common sense with a conscientious effort to be empathetic is key to success.
Global English provides a jargon-free way of communicating, without the use of idioms, colloquialisms and slang associated with everyday speech. It leverages off the concept of “plain language” by using short sentences with phrasing that is simple and consistent. This enables readers at varying degrees of English fluency to digest the message accordingly.
Two Key Ways to Improve Communication and Collaboration:
Commonality to interpret and communicate information
Many are not aware that 60% of content on the internet is in English. Content producers know that the use of Global English better positions their sites to serve their international communities. Here are some key areas where Global English is helping technologists all over the world to accurately interpret information:
- Research, including studies, papers, surveys, and reports.
- Product development, including descriptions, schematics, and use cases.
- Training and education, including instructions, tutorials, and user manuals.
- Customer service, including scripting, knowledge databases, and Q&A documentation.
Common-ground to foster business and industry collaboration
Combining talents, insights, and expertise from contributors across the world and cross cultures is paramount to designing and developing innovative new technologies. Here are some key areas in which Global English is used to help innovators worldwide to collaborate:
- Summits and conferences, which are held in cities throughout the world and enable innovators and entrepreneurs to come together and share their insights.
- Conference calls and meetings, which may be conducted in person or via virtual meeting platforms. Here developers can pool their creative talents and contribute their expertise to the design of new technologies.
- Collaboration platforms, which enable technology specialists from all over the world to contribute their specialized skills and work together on the development of technology platforms and components.
And while Global English supports a more concise communications environment, optimizing the collaboration between groups involves more than written words. Individuals should strive to adjust their verbal communications to Global English as well, minimizing slang, colloquialisms, and idioms.
Global English cannot replace the need for local language use in many cases, nor should it. However, the benefits of using Global English when communicating with international partners cannot be overstated.
