Language Issues and Monolingual Myopia in Japanese Business
Saeko Ozawa Ujiie
SBF Consulting LLC
JALT Business Communication Journal, Vol..1, Issue 1, November 2023, Pages 24-30
https://doi.org/10.37546/JALTSIG.BzCom1.1-6
Language Issues and Monolingual Myopia in Japanese Business
Saeko Ozawa Ujiie
SBF Consulting LLC
JALT Business Communication Journal, Vol..1, Issue 1, November 2023, Pages 24-30
https://doi.org/10.37546/JALTSIG.BzCom1.1-6
Abstract
This study investigates the role and status of English in Japanese businesses, particularly its use among Japanese bilingual professionals. Through a qualitative analysis of interviews with 16 business professionals from various industries, the study explores how English is integrated into corporate communication. Despite the increasing global business demands for English proficiency, the findings reveal that Japanese companies remain predominantly monolingual, with English usage limited to elite professionals and specific industries. This monolingual myopia hinders international competitiveness, highlighting the need for Japanese firms to foster a more linguistically and culturally diverse work environment. The study emphasizes that increased English usage and recruitment from diverse backgrounds are essential for enhancing Japan's global business capabilities.