In today’s global business environment, proficiency in Business English is indispensable. This article outlines how to use the TOEIC turnkey solution to benefit your business, guiding you step-by-step to position your workforce for international success.
Assess
The first step is to assess the current English skills of your employees through preliminary TOEIC testing. This evaluation provides a baseline for improvement. Many test centers offer these assessments, and it’s beneficial to prepare employees for the test format with a basic TOEIC workshop. If your test center doesn’t offer preparation workshops, online resources and apps like FluentU can be useful alternatives. Additionally, hiring an English coach to conduct a workshop can significantly enhance readiness.
Set Goals
With initial data in hand, the next step is to set clear, realistic goals for English proficiency. Decide whether to set these goals at a company-wide level, by department, or for specific roles and individuals. Consider the required proficiency levels based on job responsibilities and set reasonable expectations. The Saegusa study (1985) provides useful benchmarks for the time needed to achieve certain proficiency levels. Plan the time investment needed for study during work hours and consider the amount of personal time employees will need to commit.
Create Learning Groups
After establishing goals, organize your workforce into learning groups. These groups should be based either on current proficiency levels or on the time available to reach the set goals.
- Level-Based Groups: Participants with similar proficiency levels work together, providing mutual support and fostering a collaborative learning environment.
- Time-Based Groups: Participants aim to reach their individual goals within a set time frame, accepting and working through differences in proficiency.
Select appropriate courses for each group’s specific needs, considering both their current skills and the goals they need to achieve.
Run Courses with an Experienced Teacher
While online platforms and language learning apps are valuable, the guidance of an experienced English coach is crucial. A professional coach not only provides in-depth knowledge but also enhances motivation through their expertise and experience in preparing professionals for the TOEIC. This personalized approach significantly increases the chances of achieving the desired proficiency levels.
Test at Regular Intervals
Continuous assessment is essential. Schedule TOEIC retests every six to twelve months to measure progress and maintain momentum. Regular testing benefits everyone: it allows you to track the English proficiency of your company and helps employees see their improvement, boosting their motivation. If progress stalls, analyze the causes:
- Individual Challenges: Some employees may face personal challenges, such as a lack of interest, learning disabilities, or slower learning rates. A teacher should identify these issues and adapt their approach accordingly.
- Group Challenges: If a whole group shows no progress, it may indicate that the teaching methods or the teacher’s suitability need reevaluation. Regular retests act as a quality control measure for both the learners and the instructors.
By implementing these steps, your business can significantly improve its international communication skills, positioning itself for greater success in the global market.
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