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Languages in Portugal

Learning The Language

Why wait until you're overseas to pick up a language. Would it not be wise to familiarise yourself with an adoptive tongue before making the big move abroad, ensuring you have the confidence and ability to interact with your customers, clients and business associates? There are many UK-based tutorial companies that can help you learn a foreign language in your own time. These companies cover all levels of ability, from understanding your first foreign word to refining your last.

Sessions can be available either at your office, home, or organised classes.

Spoken Languages

Although English widely accepted as the language of business, it may still be necessary to employ a translator. Depending on the nature of your business, investment and country of operation, foreign nationals generally enjoy dealing with someone who they can form a good business relationship with. Communication and interpersonal skills are therefore paramount, as well as the ability to be enthused about a product, service or business plan.

The official Language of Portugal is Portuguese. English and French are common in the business environment. English is also taught in schools. It is an official part of the curriculum, in fact. Generally, the Portuguese have a grasp of the English language.

A translator may be required for meetings and other business interactions.

An increasing number of junior executives, managers and government officials speak English. However, depending on who you are conversing with, it may be necessary for formal meetings and negotiations that you use an interpreter. Looking ahead, this will help eradicate even the slightest chance of misinterpretation or miscommunication.

Knowledge of the country's language could mean the difference between a deal clincher or calamity, and therefore it would be advisable to hire a reputable translator.

National translators will also be able to help you with marketing and advertising. They can ensure you avoid cultural and grammatical faux pas, which could otherwise be detrimental to your business.

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