Next public TOEIC test date: August 23, 2 p.m. in Riyadh. Visit our site to preregister for this test, which provides world-recognized evidence of your English skills for business. If you are an educator or company interested in testing a number of employees or students, you can also arrange to give TOEIC tests on other dates by contacting Josephine Griffin at JGriffin@amideast.org, or phoning her at 01 483-8800.  

Introducing English at younger ages will pay big benefits, explains Imam University professor. In a recent Arab News article, Dr. Khalid Al-Seghayer argues that English should be introduced in Saudi public schools even before Grade 4. He points out numerous benefits indicated by current research including not only country economic growth but also individual improvement in seemingly unrelated areas such as stronger skills in their native language—and even better math scores.  

How much does losing an employee cost you? Total expenses for replacing even a low-skill of employee will total 25% to 50% of that employee's annual salary, reports HRToolbox. Costs for losing an employee in sales, management or other salaried positions can be even more. Save money and time by hiring the right person initially. Ask non-native English speakers to provide TOEIC test scores for objective proof that they have the communication skills their jobs will require.  

The work portfolio. Interesting ideas on JobMob about how any type of professional can create a work portfolio, with tips on what to include and how to use a completed portfolio. Good project for students who may be seeking work as well as learning English; an added tip for that audience would be to include TOEIC test score reports (see our page on résumé use) and other factual evidence of their language proficiency.