What role does bias play in perceptions of language use?

Bias influences perceptions of language use when employees unfairly assume competence or professionalism based on accents, vocabulary, or fluency.

How can HR develop policies that support multilingual teams?

HR can support multilingual teams by setting policies for respectful communication, offering translation resources, and providing language training when appropriate.

How does Emtrain’s microlesson guide employees toward respectful communication?

Emtrain’s microlesson guides employees toward respectful communication by showing how to navigate language differences and build inclusion through mindful word choice.

Foreign Languages in the Workplace

Encouraging Respect Through Language Inclusion

Workplaces are increasingly multilingual, and language differences can bring both opportunities and challenges. Without awareness, language use can leave some employees feeling excluded or misunderstood. This microlesson delivers skills training on language inclusion, helping teams respect cultural diversity while improving communication and collaboration.

Microlesson Description

This lesson provides guidance on using foreign languages in the workplace and instructs employees on how to speak up when they are feeling excluded. Legally speaking, employees are allowed to converse with one another in whichever language they please. It’s important to empower employees to be their most authentic selves at work, but it can have negative consequences for workplace culture and perceptions of inclusion.

Key Concepts

Why it's usually best to speak in a language that most of the people within the area can understand.
A reminder that people sometimes speak in the language that is easiest and most efficient for them.
How to communicate with each other if one person is feeling uncomfortable and want to participate in the conversation.

Microlesson Features

Employee sentiment pulsing questions that provide leaders with insights into their workforce's core cultural competencies
Emtrain's Expert Answers tool, enabling employeees to submit anonymous questions about sensitive issues.

Rich, contemporary video scences illustrating key concepts through realistic scenarios
A data driven, skill-based approach to eLearning that establishes a shared language for employees.

How to Use this Lesson

Each Emtrain microlesson blends real-world video scenarios, interactive surveys, and expert insights to build stronger workplace skills. Learners gain practical actions they can apply right away, while HR leaders see measurable insights into team behaviors. And with every training plan, you get access to all 90+ microlessons across communication, inclusion, compliance, and leadership.

Teach

Learn through real-world examples and instructional content that highlight the do’s and don’ts of workplace interactions. Employees explore key concepts, see how different situations play out, and discover practical ways to build stronger, more respectful connections.

Take a free preview of this microlesson now — no obligation.

Discover

Go beyond training with Emtrain Intelligence. Embedded surveys capture employee experiences and provide benchmarks so you can understand how your team compares to global peers.

Try it now and see how Emtrain Intelligence works with this lesson.

Apply It - Take Action

Turn insights into action with clear steps for improving workplace habits. Learners walk away with practical guidance to apply immediately, while HR leaders gain data to support ongoing culture improvements.

Preview this lesson now to see the actions your team can take to make in impact — free access.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Below are answers to common questions that employees and managers have about this topic. These FAQs provide a preview of what you’ll learn in this microlesson and why it matters.

Why does language use impact workplace inclusion?

Language use impacts workplace inclusion because it shapes who feels welcome, understood, and valued within daily interactions.

How can speaking different languages create barriers among employees?

Speaking different languages can create barriers when employees form cliques, exclude others unintentionally, or misinterpret meaning due to limited fluency.

What risks arise if coworkers feel excluded due to language use?

If coworkers feel excluded due to language use, risks include lowered morale, miscommunication, disengagement, and even discrimination claims.

How should managers handle complaints about language in the workplace?

Managers should handle language complaints by listening carefully, balancing inclusivity with practical needs, and reinforcing respectful communication practices.

How can language inclusivity improve team collaboration?

Language inclusivity improves collaboration by ensuring everyone can participate, share ideas, and feel equally respected in discussions.

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What's Covered

Foreign Languages in the Workplace