Your source for news and ideas related to teaching, assessment, and job skills development for non-native English speakers. We are the U.S. distributor of the TOEIC family of tests, the gold standard in testing language proficiency for the workplace developed by the Educational Testing Service. Learn more about our work.

 English proficiency requirements for U.K. visas have changed. We recently posted a two-part series covering key developments over the past year on our TOEIC4Success blog. You'll also find new posts there on such topics as building trainee speaking skills, improving vocabulary, EEOC policy on English language hiring requirements, and much more. Visit now.

How much does losing an employee cost you? Total expenses for replacing even an hourly 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.

Business English site of the month. ."The wide-ranging About.com portal has an areas specifically on "English for Business, Work, and Other Specific Purposes" with lots of useful material for teachers and learners.

English skills needed for financial growth. A recent five-country statistical study commissioned by the British Council found that learning English increased individuals' earning power by approximately 25% and that national economies with better access English speakers have superior access to international trade and growth opportunities. A summary of the study was published in the Guardian newspaper.  

 Our new Facebook page with tips for language learners has moved. Be sure to check out our page and "like" us!

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