As we know, language is a system of communication used by humans to convey thoughts, feelings, and ideas to others. Language plays an important role in human life, especially in socializing and collaborating. Through language, humans can understand each other and learn from one another. Language also functions to prevent misunderstandings between people. With the vastness of the world, languages vary in each region. Here lies the important role of English as an international language that connects countries.
In the workplace, English is not just an ordinary communication tool but a weapon that can enhance the competitiveness of both employees and companies. English opens opportunities for cross-country collaboration, enables the utilization of global resources, provides access to up-to-date information, and offers a platform for international training to develop workers. It is no surprise that according to the 2024 Global English Skills Index survey, about 60% of multinational companies in Indonesia require English proficiency as one of the main criteria in employee recruitment.
Workers who can speak English have a greater chance of easily adapting in multicultural work environments and can actively contribute to international-scale projects. For example, large technology companies like Google routinely conduct international collaborative projects that require their staff to be fluent in English. On the other hand, companies with English-speaking workers can expand their market reach and global business networks, proven by many Indonesian companies that have successfully secured overseas contracts due to their staff's effective communication in English.
Therefore, English is not just a language but a primary necessity for workers and companies. It is a powerful weapon to achieve success in the ever-evolving and adapting world of work.
