Abstract:
This study examines the role of multilingualism in intercultural business communication among professionals in Kazakhstan, where business discourse reflects a unique
combination of language planning, individual competencies, and integration of traditions
with modern economic demands. Shaped by globalization, historical influences, and geopolitical factors, Kazakhstan’s business communication is characterized by the use of Kazakh,
Russian, and English, along with other foreign languages. Using semi-structured interviews with 19 business professionals from 13 companies, the study examines multilingual
practices, language learning processes, and the impact of cultural factors on workplace
interactions. Findings reveal that Kazakh, Russian, and English serve distinct functions in
professional settings: Kazakh, as the state language, is gaining prominence in the business
sphere, particularly in official documentation and government-mandated communication;
Russian remains dominant in private and regional business interactions; and English is
indispensable for international business. While proficiency in multiple languages facilitates
overcoming intercultural barriers, differences in negotiation styles, non-verbal communication, and decision-making processes highlight the need for cultural flexibility in business
settings. The study underscores the necessity of implementing well-structured and contextsensitive language policies while advocating for the integration of professional multilingual
training into educational curricula to bridge the gap between academic preparation and
workplace demands. This research contributes to a broader understanding of how multilingualism shapes professional identity, workforce mobility, and intercultural competence in
Kazakhstan’s increasingly globalized business landscape.
