When we learn English just for show

I was taken aback. I’d always used my Vietnamese name, even when working with or speaking to foreigners. Before I could respond, I heard someone call out, "Jessica, please help me get the file." Jessica turned out to be Thao, my new colleague, who later whispered that sometimes she forgets her boss is calling her by her "international" name.

At this company, English names are a requirement. Even internal emails use these foreign names. The workplace has a formal air of "Anglicization." And yet, all communication - written reports, verbal instructions, daily interactions - is entirely in Vietnamese. There are no foreign clients, no international contracts, no need for English. The only reason given for the name policy? "Professionalism."

Let me be clear: I’m not against the use of English at work. In our globalized world, English is undeniably a valuable skill for career advancement. But there’s a difference between meaningful language use and superficial formality.

In Vietnam, English education often veers into performative territory. Some people study English simply to earn certificates. Others obsess over sounding like native speakers without ever using the language in meaningful contexts. Some offices simulate international environments with English names or token phrases just to appear modern or globally-minded.

But language is not meant for display, it's a tool for real communication. Without a practical purpose or daily application, any language skill will fade.

I have a friend who majored in English but works in finance. She doesn’t use an English name and never flaunts her language ability. Yet she’s the go-to person in her company when it comes to translating reports or handling foreign clients. She speaks English fluently and confidently—because she uses it, not because she needs to prove anything.

On the flip side, I’ve seen employees boast high IELTS scores on their CVs yet struggle to write a basic English email at work.

Learning English, or any foreign language, should be grounded in genuine needs and real-world application. No one cares if you speak fluent English if your job never calls for it. And if it does, you’ll be motivated to learn it meaningfully.

There’s no need for performative measures like assigning English names or forcing team meetings to include a few awkward phrases just to "set the tone." Language is a tool, not a costume. Let’s use it wisely.