Howe said UK firms should ensure they do not restrict their growth to either just English speaking countries or British expatriates because of language or cultural barriers.
She cites a Chambers of Commerce study which found 11% of its members did not export to Europe because of language barriers while 5% said cultural barriers stop them from trying to access European markets. The same research found on average small businesses were losing £250,000 a year due to a lack of language skills.
To assist businesses wishing to take a more proactive approach to these barriers Comtec is offering a free one-hour review of their language communication requirements. Furthermore, firms will be able to download Comtec’s ‘Guide to using language in international business’ from its website www.comtectranslations.com.
