The role of English Communication Skills in Supporting SME Internationalization

• Siska Hasibuan

  Politeknil LP3I MEDAN

  Author

• Bella Vilsa Nova

  Politeknil LP3I MEDAN

  Author

• Fani zahratu safara

  Politeknil LP3I MEDAN

  Author

• Fathima tuzzahra

  Politeknik LP3I Medan

  Author

• cindy nabila

  Politeknik LP3I Medan

  Author

• Yeni Rachmawati

  Politeknik LP3I Medan

  Author

The advancement of globalization and digital transformation has created an increasingly competitive business environment, demanding that Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) possess effective communication skills, particularly in English, supported by adequate digital literacy. This study aims to analyze the role of English language competence in supporting business communication, community empowerment, entrepreneurship development, and SME internationalization. The research employs a mixed-method approach combining qualitative and quantitative methods through interviews, observations, documentation, questionnaires, and literature review using a Systematic Literature Review (SLR). Research participants consisted of SME actors, online business operators, tourism village communities, English training participants, and stakeholders selected using purposive sampling based on relevance to the research objectives. Data analysis was conducted using qualitative descriptive methods through the processes of data reduction, data presentation, interpretation, and conclusion drawing, supported by triangulation to enhance the validity of findings. The results indicate that MSMEs are able to adapt to changing market conditions through a business pivot strategy, shifting their business from the fashion sector to the culinary sector based on Deli Malay culture as an effort to maintain business continuity while preserving local wisdom.  Furthermore, MSMEs continue to innovate their products by adapting to consumer needs and trends to remain competitive in a dynamic market. Research also found that the use of English in daily business activities is still relatively limited because the majority of consumers are from the domestic market. However, business owners recognize that English language skills play a strategic role in expanding marketing reach through digital media, building communication with international customers and business partners, participating in international exhibitions, and increasing opportunities for product exports to global markets. These findings indicate that integrating English for Specific Purposes (ESP)-based English competencies with digital literacy is a crucial factor in increasing competitiveness, expanding market access, and supporting the internationalization of MSMEs in the digital economy era. Therefore, training programs tailored to the needs of business owners are needed so that English language skills and digital literacy can be optimally utilized in business development and community economic empowerment.

1. Bella Vilsa Nova, Politeknil LP3I MEDAN

   Bella vilsa nova is a student at politeknik lp3i medan

2. Fani zahratu safara, Politeknil LP3I MEDAN

   fani zahratu safara is a student at politeknik lp3i medan

3. Fathima tuzzahra, Politeknik LP3I Medan

   fathima tuzzahra is astudent at politeknik lp3i medan

4. cindy nabila, Politeknik LP3I Medan

   cindy nabila is a student at politeknik lp3i medan 

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