Searching in Europe - language barriers?

by a searcher from INSEAD

3 years ago

For a search in Europe, to what extent would speaking English be enough vs. speaking the local language? And if local language is required, what level of fluency would be necessary? Conversational or fully business fluent?

I would imagine places like the Netherlands or Scandinavian countries would be easier to get by with just English vs. Spain - would Spain be a no go without full Spanish fluency?

Thank you!

3 likes
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6 comments

searcher from Universidad Torcuato di Tella

I agree that knowing the local language is almost a must, specially taking into account that most SMEs in Europe are owned by older people

4 days ago | like reply | 0 likes

searcher from IE Business School

I believe it depends on the sellers profile. Older probably prefers local language however younger generation will be fine with english most cases.

1 week ago | like reply | 0 likes

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