North East celebrates its international language skills

Oct 18 2006 By The Journal

More and more companies are embracing international communication skills in order to increase heir export markets across the world, and are noticing the positive effect on their bottom line.

For the last four years, One NorthEast's Regional Language Network, headed by manager Zélie Guérin has worked steadily to help North East businesses develop language skills and improve business performance in international markets.

David Allison, director of business and industry at One NorthEast, stressed the importance of North East companies planning with a strategic international perspective. He said: "Improved language ability and a greater understanding of cultural differences is crucial for the region's prosperity.

"Improving international communication skills is certainly one way in which our region's businesses can build or retain a competitive edge in overseas markets and attract more core functions of overseas and national manufacturing organisations.

"There's an exciting world of opportunity for businesses in new markets - One NorthEast's Regional Language Network is holding open the door to that world."