English communication strategies among Thai logistics professionals

Abstract

Proficiency in English as a foreign language (EFL) holds significant importance in various professional domains, including the field of logistics. However, not all individuals proficient in EFL possess effective English communication skills. Hence, the objective of this research is to investigate the English communication strategies employed by Thai professionals working in the logistics industry. To receive participants' perspectives, a comprehensive approach involving questionnaires and focus-group interviews was employed. The survey results revealed that the most frequently utilized strategies encompassed rechecking, revising, identifying key concepts, and employing dictionaries, while the least commonly used strategies were self-development, guessing, word coinage, and the use of all-purpose words, respectively. Furthermore, the in-depth insights derived from the interviews revealed that participants employed English communication for diverse purposes, including email correspondence, meetings, ordering processes, and purchasing, thereby necessitating the utilization of distinct strategies for each of the four language skills. Remarkably, website translation tools emerged as vital resources for Thai logistics professionals, forming an integral component of their digital strategy. Ultimately, the findings of this study bear relevance to both pedagogical practices and business English training programs, with specific implications for the logistics industry.