Getting passed over for promotion due to low English proficiency

The simple reason is that the higher the position, the broader the scope of communication required. A department head may have to report directly to a foreign director, while a branch manager must often communicate with global headquarters. Without good English, they struggle to take on such roles, no matter how competent they are.

In many large companies, English proficiency not only helps you do your current job well but also plays a key role in career advancement.

Looking at today’s job postings, especially from multinational and major local firms, one thing stands out: English is always an important requirement, sometimes even the top one. This puts pressure on many candidates, who see it as a barrier.

But from my experience, I think the requirement is reasonable. At such businesses, most contracts, reports, technical documents and work emails are written in English. Online meetings between teams in different countries also use English as the common language. Without it, companies must hire translators, which increases costs and slows communication.

Large corporations cannot afford mistakes caused by language barriers. They need people who can communicate clearly and directly, which is why those fluent in English always have an advantage.

The most up-to-date research papers, books and online courses are usually unavailable in Vietnamese. Hence, those who know English can learn faster, stay updated and apply new knowledge more effectively. Without it, you are limited to local materials that are often lacking and outdated.

Big companies also expect employees to take initiative and suggest solutions to work issues. To do that, you must understand international standards and be able to work with colleagues from other countries.

English also builds confidence. Without it, you may hesitate to speak up, making it harder for employers to recognize your potential. Being able to communicate naturally with foreign managers or colleagues makes you look professional. When two candidates have similar qualifications, the one more fluent in English is often chosen.

Thus, English is not a barrier but a measure of global readiness. In small firms, you may not need it much, but in large businesses, it keeps everything running smoothly. Just as you cannot be a driver without knowing how to drive, you cannot thrive in a global workplace without knowing the common language.

Not everyone had the chance to learn English early, but there are now plenty of affordable ways to study, from free online courses and groups to countless learning platforms. What matters is whether you have the will to improve.

Instead of complaining about English requirements, treat them as motivation to grow. Without improving your English, you risk missing valuable opportunities.

English is no longer just a foreign language; it has become an essential skill in today’s world. When companies demand English proficiency, they are not being strict but ensuring effective communication and long-term growth.

For young people entering the job market, it should not feel like a burden but a passport to opportunity, progress, and lasting success.

*This opinion was translated into English with the assistance of AI. Readers’ views are personal and do not necessarily match VnExpress’ viewpoints.