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Business English Levels: Where Are You Really?

Standard English tests measure grammar, not professional performance. A better question than 'what's my level?' is 'what can I actually do at work?' Here's an honest way to place yourself — and see what to work on next.

Digby R. Kerr
By Digby R. Kerr, Wharton-educated executive, author of 16 published books, founder of Kerr University™. About 35 years in global business.

Level by situation, not by test

You might be advanced in email and hesitant in meetings. Real Business English level is situational: rate yourself across meetings, presentations, negotiations, small talk, and writing. The gaps show you exactly where to focus.

The three practical tiers

Functional: you get the job done but often feel behind. Confident: you contribute comfortably in most situations. Commanding: you lead the room and influence outcomes. Most professionals sit at functional and want to reach commanding.

Get an honest read

Self-assessment only goes so far. An expert can hear in ten minutes what you can't hear in yourself — the specific habits capping your level and the fastest way to lift them. That's what a free assessment is for.

Frequently asked questions

How do I know my Business English level?

Assess by situation — meetings, presentations, writing — rather than a single grammar score; the gaps reveal your real level.

What are the practical levels?

Functional (gets by), confident (contributes comfortably), and commanding (leads and influences).

Why not just take a test?

Tests measure grammar, not professional performance, which is what matters at work.

How do I get an honest assessment?

Book a free 30-minute class — an expert can pinpoint your level and next steps quickly.

Start with a free 30-minute class

See the Fast-Track Fluency Method™ in action and meet Digby in person. No risk, no obligation.

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