An investigation into SMEs’ use of languages in their export operations

Abstract

This paper reports on an exploratory investigation into the use of languages within UK small and medium‐sized enterprises (SME) which are engaged in export activities. Results from a postal survey and subsequent interviews provide a contribution to the literature by reporting on empirical findings in relation to four areas: managers’ perceived importance and benefits of using foreign languages, issues preventing their use, the functional use of languages within businesses and issues affecting firms’ recruitment and training in respect of languages. The results suggest that, although most firms are aware of the importance of languages and the benefits they can bring, this is not reflected in their use in certain functional areas and within the recruitment and training policies of many businesses.