Using Business English as a Lingua Franca for Written and Spoken Communication: Challenges Encountered by Thai Human Resources Professionals in An American Multinational Company

Unquestionably, English is a medium for international communication, particularly in multinational companies (MNCs). In this regard, professionals who work MNCs, including human resources (HR), inevitably encounter challenges using the workplace environment where people are from diverse linguistic and cultural backgrounds. This study attempts to examine how Thai HR perceived role of business as lingua franca (BELF) they faced communication. survey employed mixed-methods approach data collection. A questionnaire semi-structured interview were developed collect data. Thirty-nine at an American oil gas subsidiary Bangkok metropolitan area purposively selected. Data collected both instruments analysed descriptive statistics content analysis, respectively. Our analysis demonstrates that most respondents had positive attitude about BELF their organisation. However, it was necessary them be aware interactants’ backgrounds effectively use avoid serious mistakes written spoken summary, reveals understood concept more difficulties communication tasks (e.g., press briefings negotiations) comparison tasks. The findings can beneficial educators trainers terms awareness intercultural guidance developing BELF-oriented courses university students, graduates professionals. Keywords: Business franca; communication; challenges;