Key facts
- Who: Vicky Sweeting, Global English TESOL graduate
- Where: Normandy, France (face-to-face) and worldwide (virtual)
- Course: the 120-hour TESOL course with a Business English specialism, completed in 2012
- Outcome: a 10+ year career training corporate clients including Sanofi, Bayer, Mercedes, Deutsche Bank and Carrefour
Vicky Sweeting’s TESOL journey exemplifies the impact of specialised Business English training in the global professional landscape. From face-to-face coaching in Normandy, France to virtual training sessions worldwide, her expertise continues to empower professionals with the communication skills they need to succeed.
Since completing her TESOL qualification with Global English more than ten years ago, Vicky has built a thriving career specialising in Business English training. Working with renowned organisations such as Birdwell International, Learnship, and the Chamber of Commerce (CCI Normandy West Language Study Centre – FIM Formation), she has helped countless professionals gain confidence in their English communication skills.
How did Vicky's TESOL journey begin?
Vicky embarked on her TESOL journey with Global English in 2012, completing the 120-hour course with a Business focus. With prior experience in training and development, she was well-equipped in course planning and delivery but sought to refine her grammar instruction techniques. The TESOL course provided her with the necessary tools to create interactive, learner-focused lessons that make complex grammar concepts accessible and engaging.
Which companies has Vicky worked with?
Vicky has collaborated with major corporations across various industries, including:
- Healthcare: Sanofi, Bayer
- Automotive: Mercedes, Daimler
- Finance: Deutsche Bank
- Retail: Carrefour
- Technology & Aerospace: Bertelsmann, DLR (German Aerospace Centre)
Her work with these organisations focuses on enhancing employees' communication skills for meetings, presentations, negotiations, and day-to-day business interactions.
“Building strong rapport and maintaining regular communication is essential when your students are busy working professionals.”
- Vicky Sweeting, Global English graduate, Business English trainer
What challenges come with teaching Business English?
Vicky emphasises patience and adaptability when working with business clients. Common challenges include scheduling conflicts, lack of response from busy professionals, and students struggling with confidence. Her approach includes:
- Building strong rapport and maintaining regular communication
- Encouraging students to take ownership of their learning
- Using real-life business materials like presentations and emails for practical learning
What tools does Vicky use for Business English training?
Vicky integrates various tools to enhance learning experiences:
- Platforms: Learnship, Birdwell’s 7Speaking
- Online resources: British Council, BBC Learning English, Breaking News English
- AI tools: Natural Reader, Eleven Labs, Quizlet, Language Reactor
- Books: the Oxford University Press Business Result series
What advice does Vicky have for aspiring Business English teachers?
For those considering a career in Business English teaching abroad, Vicky shares valuable insights:
- Choose a country and culture that align with your interests
- Consider accommodation costs and pay rates in different regions
- Stay updated with AI tools to remain competitive in the evolving teaching landscape
- Leverage coaching techniques for personalised learning experiences
What's next for Business English training?
Looking ahead, Vicky foresees a shift toward AI integration in language learning. However, she believes personalised coaching will continue to be essential in business communication training. Her focus remains on adapting to industry trends while delivering tailored, impactful lessons to her students.
Why did Vicky choose Global English?
Reflecting on her own TESOL experience, Vicky praises Global English for its:
- Flexible online format
- Comprehensive focus on English language teaching
- Strong job placement support
- Affordable pricing and discounts
If you are looking to add a business qualification to any Global English TEFL/TESOL course, or are already trained (with either weekend, online or CELTA course) and want to add a business specialism, sign up for the Global English 30-hour Teaching Business English Specialist Course.
Frequently asked questions
How do you become a Business English teacher?
Vicky started with the 120-hour Global English TESOL course plus a Business English specialism. A background in training and development can help with course planning, but the specialism itself teaches the grammar-instruction and lesson-design skills specific to corporate learners.
What tools do Business English teachers use?
Vicky's toolkit spans virtual-training platforms (Learnship, 7Speaking), free resources (British Council, BBC Learning English, Breaking News English), AI tools for pronunciation and vocabulary practice, and coursebooks such as the Oxford Business Result series.