SmallTalk2Me Team Blog
2023-05-31 23:39 English for Business

Workplace English Assessments: Business Acceleration with AI and English Proficiency Tests

An automated assessment test for companies to evaluate candidates' English proficiency skills in speaking and writing.

English plays a dominant role in the business world, making strong business English skills essential for your staff. Language proficiency tests are valuable tools when hiring new staff, optimizing current roles, or redesigning your corporate training plan. However, evaluating the language proficiency of job candidates or employees can be tricky. Thankfully, with the rise of AI, English assessments have become more innovative and efficient.

In today's world, AI-powered business English proficiency tests have transformed how candidates showcase their language abilities. These tests go beyond the basics of grammar and vocabulary. With the help of AI algorithms, they assess a person's spoken and written English, as well as their ability to understand the language. It's like having a virtual language expert!

AI has expanded the range of standardized English tests, catering to students, visa seekers, job applicants, and employers. Business English proficiency tests now integrate AI to evaluate language skills in a business context. They can determine how well a candidate or employee communicates during customer service calls or sales meetings, offering valuable insights for recruitment and training decisions.

When assessing English proficiency, it's important to consider the four main language skills:

  • listening,
  • speaking,
  • reading,
  • writing.

AI-powered assessments take into account these skills and provide a more comprehensive evaluation. Whether someone is an excellent listener or a skilled writer, AI assessments offer a well-rounded approach to language proficiency.

To ensure a standardized testing process, many companies worldwide rely on the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR). This framework objectively measures foreign language mastery and consists of six levels that represent different language learning milestones and proficiency in the four language skills.

As the demand for English assessments grows, several business English proficiency tests have embraced AI technology to deliver accurate and reliable results. Let's explore the well-known tests that provide employer-friendly features while evaluating language proficiency:

  1. Linguaskill by Cambridge English Language Assessment. With flexible testing options and AI integration, Linguaskill covers all CEFR language levels. Employers receive results within 48 hours, making it a convenient choice.
  2. Cambridge English Qualifications. Trusted by leading employers worldwide, these business qualifications demonstrate your language skills for success. With authentic scenarios and face-to-face speaking tests, you'll be prepared to confidently perform in an international business environment. You can be qualified at three levels: B1 — Business Preliminary, B2 — Business Vantage and C1 — Business Higher.
  3. Versant by Pearson Test. This AI-powered test assesses business English proficiency in speaking, reading, writing, and listening. Versant offers various test options, allowing organizations to target specific skills. Results are available in minutes.
  4. TOEIC (Test of English for International Communication). The TOEIC tests cater to different proficiency levels and cover all language areas. Scores can be mapped to CEFR levels, providing internationally recognized certification.
Here are some potential downsides to consider for Cambridge English Qualifications, Versant by Pearson, and TOEIC program:

  1. Cost. All of these programs involve costs associated with exams, preparation materials, and potentially training courses. These expenses can be a barrier for individuals or organizations with limited budgets.
  2. Standardized Testing Limitations. Like any standardized test, these programs may have limitations in fully capturing real-world communication skills or industry-specific language needs. They focus on specific language aspects and may not provide a comprehensive evaluation of all language competencies required in a corporate setting.
  3. Time Commitment. Preparing for and taking these exams requires a significant investment of time and effort. Individuals with busy schedules or other work commitments may find it challenging to allocate sufficient time for exam preparation.
  4. Limited Scope and Specialization. While these programs offer various proficiency levels and business-specific exams, they may not cover all specialized language needs or industry-specific terminology. Some professionals might require additional training or customized learning to meet their specific corporate English requirements.
  5. Cultural Bias. Standardized exams can unintentionally incorporate cultural biases or favor certain linguistic backgrounds, potentially disadvantaging individuals from non-native English-speaking or diverse cultural backgrounds.
  6. Focus on Receptive Skills. Some exams primarily assess listening and reading skills. While these skills are essential, they may not fully reflect an individual's ability to effectively communicate and interact in spoken or written English.
  7. Employers' Recognition. While Cambridge English Qualifications, Versant, and TOEIC are widely recognized and accepted by many employers, it is essential to research and ensure that the specific organizations or industries you are targeting value and recognize these qualifications.

It's crucial to assess these factors in relation to your specific goals, needs, and the expectations of your target industry or organization to make an informed decision.

Experience faster, easier, and bias-free English testing with SmallTalk2Me, the leading AI-powered language platform for accurate and detailed assessment of speaking and writing skills. Simplify your company's language evaluation process and make data-driven decisions about hiring, promoting, and educating your team. With SmallTalk2Me, renowned partners trust in our expertise to deliver exceptional results.

How does SmallTalk work? It's as easy as 1-2-3:


  1. Choose a test that suits your needs. Select from testing speaking skills, writing skills, or both. You can even design a custom branded test tailored specifically to your company's requirements. Once your test is ready, simply send it to the candidates.
  2. Candidates can complete the test remotely, at their convenience, using a computer or mobile phone to record their answers. SmallTalk2Me ensures flexibility and accessibility, allowing candidates to take the test anytime and anywhere.
  3. Get instant results! As soon as a candidate completes the test, you receive the results promptly. Each candidate's CEFR level and language proficiency profile are provided, enabling you to identify the best fit for your needs. SmallTalk2Me's comprehensive reports detail twenty-five measured parameters, evaluating various aspects of a candidate's speech, including pronunciation, fluency, vocabulary, interaction, cohesion, and grammar. These insights empower you to make informed decisions with confidence.

Why choose SmallTalk2Me?

Here are the exceptional features and benefits:

  • Advanced Speech Analysis. SmallTalk2Me utilizes state-of-the-art Speech Recognition and NLP technologies to deliver highly accurate results, catering to candidates from diverse cultural backgrounds.
  • Verified Assessment Methodology. Our assessment methodology, designed by language experts, aligns with the esteemed Cambridge English Scale and the internationally recognized CEFR standards, ensuring reliable and valid language ability measurements.
  • Accurate CEFR Level and Language Proficiency Reports. SmallTalk2Me's comprehensive reports provide in-depth evaluations of a candidate's speech, covering multiple aspects such as pronunciation, fluency, vocabulary, interaction, cohesion, and grammar. You gain valuable insights into their language proficiency.
  • Harnessing the Power of Big Data. SmallTalk2Me leverages thousands of hours of live-speech recordings, encompassing various accents, to reliably evaluate language proficiency. This data-driven approach enhances the accuracy and effectiveness of assessments.
  • Flexible Integration. Seamlessly integrate SmallTalk2Me with existing platforms like Greenhouse, Google Meet, or Zoom. Alternatively, our API allows easy embedding into your workflow, ensuring a smooth and efficient experience.
  • Privacy and Security. SmallTalk2Me prioritizes modern privacy and security standards, safeguarding your valuable data. Rest assured that your information is kept safe and secure throughout the assessment process.
  • Test Customization. Tailor tests to your specific requirements by combining different techniques and metrics such as vocabulary range, grammar, and pronunciation. Craft questions that assess relevant vocabulary and pronunciation of industry-specific keywords, saving precious recruitment time by avoiding unnecessary interviews.
Discover the power of SmallTalk2Me with our trial package, offering 5 free tests, CEFR scoring, a detailed report, and access to our cloud platform.
Upgrade to our member package for $12 per test (or $10 per test if you purchase 20+), unlocking additional features such as tests customization, results export, and 24-hour support. For enterprise needs, take advantage of our special pricing, offering monthly or annual subscriptions for unlimited tests, performance tracking, CEFR scoring, detailed reports, customization options, results export, and dedicated support.

Who is SmallTalk2Me B2B for?

Hiring & Admission: Streamline your candidate selection process, saving valuable time by leveraging SmallTalk2Me's AI capabilities to obtain instant and unbiased results. Ensure candidates meet your language requirements with precision.

Learning & Development: Foster the growth and progress of your team by obtaining objective language assessment results in the shortest possible time. Identify areas for improvement and tailor development plans accordingly.

Management: Eliminate hiring errors and expedite your language assessment process. With SmallTalk2Me, confidently hire the best talent without exceeding your budget.

SmallTalk2Me empowers businesses to make informed decisions, optimize language assessments, and drive success. Choose SmallTalk2Me today and experience the future of language evaluation. Contact our sales team for more information.