A Survey of English Use in Russian Export Firms
Evgeny Kiselev (Kwansei Gakuin University)
Abstract
The current study presents findings of a study of the use of the English language by Russian exporting companies. This study uses the data from a quantitative survey of language use in 120 Russian export firms to identify language policies, practices and needs regarding English. In particular, the study focuses on which tasks and in which communicative situations English is used, and to what extent language difficulties are encountered. The findings indicate that while a large number of staff in Russian export firms use English on a daily basis, a significant number of firms experience difficulties related to English language proficiency during the negotiation process. This study also suggests that there are objective and subjective needs in an improved English language competency, specifically in contract negotiations area.