When I go to Pret A Manger for my lunch I would like it if the person serving me could understand what I am saying!
On more than one occasion, in more than one Pret, I have often had to repeat my order several times because the person behind the counter has such a poor grasp of the English language that they can't figure out what I'm trying to order.
Should the ability to speak and understand English not be a prerequisite for working in any retail outlet in England? Maybe responsibility for teaching the native language to employees should fall upon businesses that employ non native speakers.
One of the most basic functions of anyone in a customer service position is that they communicate with the customer. If they can't speak the native language, they can't do their job properly and as such should not be in a position where they are expected to do so.
Our immigration policies combined with equal opportunity laws in the UK give us a rich cultural tapestry which is something we should be proud of but something must be done about the language barriers between natives and non natives. If it doesn't fall to the businesses, maybe it should fall to the Government... We all want these people to work... In most cases that is why people come here. Let's give them some help and make things better for everyone.
Comments [2]