HCN News & Notes

ILI Announces Enhanced Workplace Training Initiative

NORTHAMPTON — The International Language Institute of Massachusetts (ILI) is focusing on improving communications among staff and customers in the workplace with a new product called the Workplace Training Initiative.

With 34 years of experience in teaching languages throughout communities and workplaces in western Massachusetts, ILI’s enhanced Workplace Training Initiative addresses the need for improved interaction between non-native English speaking employees and customers, with a new twist. The core curriculum now includes an emphasis on digital literacy and customer service.

ILI’s teachers travel to businesses for on-site classes that accommodate the unique circumstances of each workplace. Discussions (before classes begin) set the parameters and expectations for the courses. In general, classes focus on everyday conversations that are expected among staff and in working with customers and improvements in digital literacy to help employees increase their productivity.

Courses generally include once-a-week sessions for 1.5 hours each. Costs vary, depending on the frequency and number of the sessions. ILI is an approved provider for the Workplace Training Fund, which means as a qualified organization, businesses may be eligible for state workplace training funds to offset a portion of the costs of the classes. For more information, visit http://ili.edu/workplace-programs