By Singapore Teaching Centre, British Council

17 January 2022 - 10:00

Business English student and books

Reading widely is an essential practice for students of English. Not only will it improve your language proficiency in day-to-day life, but it will equip you with the skills and knowledge needed to advance in your career. In fact, continuous learning is fundamental to remaining competitive in any profession.

Making the time to upskill can be challenging for those with busy lives, but it’s always worth it, and the British Council’s Business English courses are designed to be as efficient and flexible as possible. Here are three books on our teachers’ shelves to satisfy your thirst for knowledge and get you inspired for a high-achieving 2022.

Learn more on Business English courses

Cambridge English for Job-hunting (Cambridge University Press)

Aimed at both working professionals and those at the beginning of their career journey, Cambridge English for Job-hunting comprises six standalone units covering areas such as CV writing, cover letters, and interview preparation. Focusing on the specialist English language skills required to secure employment, the book includes real examples by stand-out applicants, plus invaluable advice on each aspect of the job-hunting process. 

Key Business Skills (Collins)

Barry Tomalin is an expert in business and international communication who has worked with the British Council and the BBC World Service. In this book, he offers non-native English speakers the tools to succeed in presentations, meetings, negotiations and networking. Following a unique 'Business Plus' approach, each section sets activities to develop key skills needed by executives, such as responding to difficult questions, interjecting in conference calls and meetings, recognising the signals of negotiation and cultural tips for building business relationships.

Business Result series (Oxford University Press)

The Business Result series covers a range of business communication skills relevant to different work contexts, enabling students to apply their learning to real-world situations. The practical advice is excellent for working professionals who wish to make immediate, achievable improvements to their career performance.

Business English courses at the British Council

If you are considering building on your self-study by enrolling in an English course for adults, our Business English courses may offer the professional skills focus you require. Designed to help you communicate confidently, network professionally and improve your English writing, our classes can be delivered part-time, or in a 1:1/Small Group setting at flexible times and at a location of your choice. 

Benefit from personalised content linked to your career and learning aims, coupled with individual feedback on presentations, speeches, emails and reports. Our students also receive exclusive access to MyNetwork networking events and workshops, which offer endless possibilities for meeting valuable contacts helping you to get closer to your career goals.

Find out more about our upcoming Business English course dates and fees.

Sign up for Business English courses