http://worldcat.org/entity/work/id/2822284

The Employment of Non-English Speaking Workers : what Industry must do

A pilot study was undertaken for the Community Relations Commission of the employment of non-English speaking immigrants in British industry, using open-ended interviews (21 at the management level, 15 others, and 128 immigrants). Objectives were (1) to investigate the impact on business organizations of employing non-English speaking immigrants and (2) to attempt to analyze the benefits and costs of providing language training, particularly at the company level. Problems of concern to management include the effects of lack of language on job entry and promotion, and the implications of language problems for industrial relations. In-company language training has not been general, has needed support from community leaders, and has been dependent for its success on the attitudes of management at all levels. Analysis of costs and benefits (for the individual, society, and the company) indicates that the various benefits of in-company programs outweigh the costs. Concluding that language training is a factor which could contribute to avoiding future conflict and that unless top management recognizes the need efforts to promote in-company training may be frustrated, the need for urgent, positive action is emphasized, including the provision of major resources for further language training facilities for industry. (Sa).

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