The Role of English in Fostering Online Business in Indonesia

Abstract

Currently, English is very important in attracting and gaining customers in the social media where the online business is based. This happens for many reasons. The use of English in labelling both the name of the shops and the products, for instance, dominates almost all online shops in the social media. In addition, the commonly used taglines such as “ready stock”, “open PO (Pre-Order)”, “hot seller”, also dominate the script of the products. Above all, the most important role of English is as the media of communication between the seller and the customers, especially from abroad. In this way, a seller is motivated to be able to speak and write in English in order to enhance his/her sales. Despite those facts, English itself has become a major trend language among the users of social media in Indonesia. Most of the Indonesians, especially youth, regard English as a “cool” language. In line with that, online business in Indonesia is also steadily growing. Day by day, many online shops appear by offering various products with various brands written in English. That is why, it is not doubtful to say that English has a significant role for Indonesians to get involved in the world market. Therefore, this research paper aims to examine the significance of English as a potential supply in fostering the success of online business, especially in Indonesia.