THEORETICAL BACKGROUND
An investigation into interpersonal meaning
Halliday and Matthiesen (2004), as cited in Eggins (2004: 144), state that
Language serves as a vital tool for establishing connections between individuals during interactions, highlighting the relationship between the current speaker and the likely next speaker This dynamic emphasizes the semantic aspects of the grammar of interaction.
According to Matthiessen (1995), the interpersonal meaning is considered to be ―a resource for enacting social roles and relationships between speaker/writer and listener/reader.‖ (1995: 17)
Meanwhile, Thompson explains the interpersonal meaning as
Language serves as a vital tool for human interaction, enabling us to build and sustain relationships, influence others' behaviors, articulate our perspectives, and shape the viewpoints of those around us.
The primary objective of interpersonal meaning is to create and sustain social relationships among participants This concept is linked to the text's tenor, which encompasses three key components: status, contact, and affect.
Interpersonal meaning mainly concerns the roles of addressers and audience, mood and modality
1.1.1 Mood 1.1.1.1 Speech roles and speech functions
Mood plays a crucial role in shaping social relationships between writers or speakers and their audience Halliday (1994) identifies two fundamental speech roles: giving and demanding He further outlines four basic interpersonal positions in communication: giving information, demanding information, giving goods and services, and demanding goods and services The interplay of these speech roles and commodities gives rise to various speech functions, such as offers, commands, statements, and questions, as illustrated in Table 1.1.
Commodity exchanged (a) (a) goods-&-services (b) information (i)giving ―offer‖ would you like this teapot?
―statement‖ he’s giving her the teapot (ii) demanding ―command‖ give me that teapot!
―question‖ what is he giving her?
Table 1.1 Speech functions and commodities exchanged (Halliday, 1994: 69)
The four basic speech functions are closely related with particular grammatical structures The relationship between forms of speech functions and typical mood clauses is illustrated in Table 1.2 as follows:
Speech function Typical mood in clause Command ―imperative mood‖
Would you like to have dinner with me?
It was one of Shakespeare’s works
What are you going to do tonight?
Table 1.2 Speech functions and typical mood of clause (Adapted from Eggins, 2004: 148)
In English grammar, a clause is divided into two main components: Mood and Residue The Mood consists of the Subject and Finite, where the Subject provides the necessary reference for affirming or denying the proposition (Halliday, 1994: 76) The Finite element, which indicates tense and modality, is crucial as it makes the proposition finite and connects it to the context of the speech event The Residue, on the other hand, includes three functional elements: Predicator, Complement, and Adjunct, which together complete the clause.
In Systemic Functional Grammar (SFG), the structure of declarative, interrogative, and imperative clauses is determined by the arrangement of the Subject and Finite elements Halliday (1994: 74) notes that the Mood element, which comprises the Subject and Finite, reflects the indicative feature Declarative clauses are typically structured with the Subject preceding the Finite.
Tom is reading Oliver Twist
Interrogative clauses are primarily categorized into two types: polar interrogatives, which are yes/no questions that follow the structure of placing the finite verb before the subject, and Wh-questions, where the structure varies depending on the Wh-element If the Wh-element serves as the subject, the order is subject before finite; otherwise, the finite verb precedes the subject.
Wh-element conflated with Subject
Adjunct/WH- Finite Subject Predicator
Eggins (2004) identifies four types of imperative structures: (i) an imperative without a Mood element, (ii) an imperative featuring only a Finite Mood element, (iii) an imperative with only a Subject Mood element, and (iv) an imperative where the Finite Mood element precedes the Subject These types are exemplified in various sentences.
(iii) You Listen! (iv) Don’t you borrow her book!
Subject Predicator Finite Subject Predicator Complement
Halliday and Matthiesen (2004) emphasize that the Mood element, which includes Subject and Finite, is crucial for expressing mood selection in clauses They highlight that the realization of mood varies across different social and cultural contexts, noting that the Subject-Finite sequence is primarily found in certain European languages In contrast, many languages, including those in East and South-East Asia like Chinese, Vietnamese, Japanese, and Thai, often utilize tone and specific interpersonal mood particles These mood particles, typically positioned at the beginning or end of a clause, fulfill the interpersonal role of Negotiator.
In Vietnamese yes-no interrogative clauses, the structure does not involve the inversion of the subject and finite verb, maintaining the same word order as declarative sentences, with the subject preceding the predicator Unlike English, Vietnamese questions resemble narrative sentences but often incorporate modal particles such as "à" or "hả," as well as adverb pairs like "có chưa," "có không," and "có phải không" to form questions This highlights the distinct interpersonal meaning conveyed in yes/no interrogative clauses in both English and Vietnamese.
Do you know her? Anh biết cô ấy không?
Finite Subject Predicator Complement Subject Predicator Complement Mood
Mood Residue Mood Residue Mood
Thompson (2000) highlights that meaning can be conveyed through lexico-grammatical forms that have evolved from their original purposes Halliday (1994) notes that the four basic speech functions can also be expressed through non-typical structures known as grammatical metaphor of mood This approach is prevalent in everyday communication, where commands, typically expressed in the imperative mood, can take various forms For instance, instead of a direct command like "Show me the car!", one might say, "Could you tell me where you parked the car, please?" or "It is advisable to tell me where you parked the car."
1.1.2 Modality 1.1.2.1 Definition and types of modality
Halliday (1994) emphasizes the significance of modality in expressing interpersonal meaning within clauses, allowing speakers to establish their stance and the validity of their propositions Modality represents a spectrum between positive and negative extremes, reflecting the speaker's judgments The modality system effectively delineates the area of uncertainty that exists between "yes" and "no" (Halliday and Matthiessen, 2004: 147).
Modality is classified differently according to different linguists Palmer
(1986) distinguishes two main types of modality: epistemic and root modality
Quirk et al (1985: 219) call these extrinsic (human judgment of what is or is not likely to happen) and intrinsic (some kind of intrinsic human control over events)
In SFG, modality is divided into two main categories: modalization and modulation This classification stems from the differentiation between propositions, which encompass statements and questions, and proposals, which include offers and commands When information is the primary commodity being exchanged, the expressions of modality are referred to accordingly.
Modalization refers to the validity of propositions, encompassing degrees of probability (possibly, probably, certainly) and usuality (sometimes, usually, always) In contrast, modulation applies to modality when discussing goods and services, with the clause labeled as a "proposal." This concept highlights the speaker's confidence in the potential success of an exchange, particularly regarding obligations.
(allowed to/ supposed to/ required to) in a command and the inclination (willing to/ anxious to/ determined) in an offer
In traditional grammar, the realization of modality is mainly through modal operators, which are also labeled modal auxiliary such as could, can, will, may In
SFG, according to Halliday (1994), there are a number of ways to realize modality, as illustrated in Table 1.3 below
Types of intermediacy Typical realization Example modalization probability
(possible /probable /certain) finite modal operator modal Adjunct (both the above)
They must have known They certainly knew They certainly must have known usuality (sometimes /usually /always) finite modal operator modal Adjunct (both the above)
It must always happen modulation obligation
(allowed finite modal operator passive verb Predicator
You’re required to be patient!
/supposed /required) inclination (willing /keen /determined) finite modal operator adjective Predicator
Table 1.3 Modalization and modulation (Adapted from Halliday, 1994: 91)
According to Halliday (1994), modal operators are categorized into three basic values: low, median, and high The low modal operators include terms like "can," "may," and "might," while median operators encompass "will," "would," and "should." High modal operators are represented by "must," "ought to," and "need." In their negative forms, low operators use "needn’t," median operators employ "won’t," and high operators include "mustn’t" and "can’t." Understanding these distinctions is essential for effective communication and nuanced expression in language.
Tenor of job advertisements
Understanding the context of a situation is crucial, as it encompasses three variables that align with the three meta-functions of any text Halliday (1985) defines the context of situation, or "register," as "variation according to use," indicating that specific linguistic resources are commonly employed in particular contexts In Systemic Functional Grammar (SFG), the context of situation is categorized into three elements: field, tenor, and mode.
The field of discourse is the social action in which the grammar is embedded
The article examines the nature of social action within organizations as they communicate job openings to attract potential applicants It focuses on the strategies employed by enterprises to effectively convey information about advertised positions, aiming to enhance their recruitment efforts.
The discourse mode focuses on the function of language within a specific context, emphasizing its intended purpose and the medium used, whether written or spoken This research specifically examines written language, highlighting that face-to-face interactions between recruiters or advertisers and job seekers are not anticipated.
The tenor of discourse highlights the dynamics between participants involved in a meaningful social interaction It is intricately linked to interpersonal meaning, making a thorough analysis of this contextual variable essential for understanding communication.
1.2.2 Tenor: the interpersonal variable of the context of situation
Tenor refers to the linguistic aspect that identifies the participants in communication, whether they are real or imagined As noted by Eggins & Slade (1997), tenor encompasses three key dimensions: power, contact, and affective elements.
Language choices are often influenced by our perceived power dynamics in interactions The disparity in status can dictate how we communicate; for instance, we may express a polite request to a superior while issuing a command to a child.
Interpersonal relationships differ in the duration and frequency of interactions, which can be classified as voluntary or involuntary, and regular or intermittent As a result, we often communicate in a more casual manner with close friends and family, while our interactions with neighbors, whom we see less frequently, tend to be more polite and reserved.
Affective involvement refers to the way we select our language based on our emotional closeness to those we interact with This connection can vary significantly, ranging from no emotional attachment with distant individuals to moderate feelings towards acquaintances like classmates or colleagues, and reaching a high level of intimacy with loved ones such as family members or partners.
Figure 1.3 The affective involvement continuum
Job advertisements serve as a unique form of communication that establishes a connection between recruiters and potential applicants While the interaction tends to be low in emotional engagement, the power dynamics are intricate Recruiters hold a position of authority, indicating an unequal status compared to job seekers However, similar to other commercial advertisements, recruiters cannot compel readers to apply, suggesting a more balanced power relationship at this stage.
Job advertisements serve as a crucial link between advertisers and job seekers, showcasing the advertiser's genuine intent to inform and attract applicants The choice of lexical and grammatical patterns significantly shapes the interpersonal meaning within these ads This analysis will explore how interpersonal meaning is conveyed in both English and Vietnamese job advertisements.
A CONTRASTIVE ANALYSIS OF INTERPERSONAL MEANING
IN ENGLISH AND VIETNAMESE JOB ADVERTISEMENTS
This chapter conducts a contrastive analysis of interpersonal meaning in English and Vietnamese job advertisements using the Systemic Functional Grammar (SFG) framework It examines mood, modality, and the person system within the corpus to provide insights into the realization of interpersonal meaning in both languages The analysis aims to enhance understanding of how interpersonal meaning is expressed in job advertisements across English and Vietnamese contexts.
A contrastive analysis in terms of mood
This section will analyze the speech roles in job advertisements, building on the functional tenor and mood structures discussed in Chapter 1 It will provide a detailed examination of the specific mood structures utilized in various job advertisement samples.
Job advertisements primarily serve two speech roles: informative and persuasive Advertisers provide essential details about the company, job responsibilities, qualifications, salary, benefits, and contact information, while also aiming to attract potential candidates to apply Recognizing that job postings fulfill a dual purpose, it is crucial for advertisers to carefully consider their language choices This article will analyze the grammatical structures used in various job advertisements to understand how advertisers engage with readers through mood selection in both English and Vietnamese contexts The findings will be presented in detailed tables for clarity.
Table 2.1 Distribution and frequency of mood structures in the samples of
Table 2.2 Distribution and frequency of mood structures in the samples of
Table 2.1 and 2.2 reveal that English and Vietnamese job advertisements share similarities in mood structures, yet notable differences exist between the two cultures Both languages predominantly utilize declarative mood structures, with English at 87% and Vietnamese at 92% In English job advertisements, declarative structures account for 50.6%, while Vietnamese prefers elliptical declarative structures at 76.2% Additionally, interrogative clauses are present in 4.3% of English ads but are rarely found in Vietnamese, which only shows 0.5% The subsequent sections will provide a detailed analysis of these similarities and differences in speech functions.
The declarative mood is commonly recognized as the primary structure for conveying information However, due to the presence of grammatical metaphors, both imperative and interrogative moods can also serve the purpose of delivering information effectively.
This thesis highlights that declarative mood structures, including both declarative and elliptical forms, dominate English and Vietnamese job advertisements, accounting for 87% and 92% of the total structures, respectively This prevalence indicates that advertisers favor declarative formats to effectively communicate essential information about the recruiting company, job vacancies, responsibilities, requirements, and benefits to potential applicants The substantial presence of declaratives in the analyzed corpus underscores their role as the primary means of conveying information in job advertisements.
(1) In this role, you will be responsible for performing all tasks and communication related to the intake of patient information (E5)
(2) Anthem Education has been dedicated to making a difference in our student’s lives for over 100 years.(E10)
(3) The ideal candidate will have at least 5-7 years of storage and NAS support experience specifically with NETAPP and similar NAS devices (E12)
Công ty cổ phần Đầu tư TOPCOM là nhà phân phối xe Piaggio hàng đầu tại Việt Nam, sở hữu hơn 30 showroom và dịch vụ sửa chữa tại Hà Nội và thành phố Hồ Chí Minh.
Tại AI&T, bạn sẽ có cơ hội tiếp cận công nghệ kỹ thuật tiên tiến nhất, tham gia đóng góp ý tưởng và phát triển các sản phẩm sáng tạo, phục vụ người dùng toàn cầu.
Declarative sentences effectively convey diverse information, as demonstrated in the examples provided The first example outlines the responsibilities of prospective applicants, while the second highlights the company's educational vision The third example specifies the job requirements, and the fourth serves as a corporate advertisement, reflecting the company's public identity Lastly, the fifth example details the employee benefits at AI&T.
Besides declarative structures, multiple elliptical declarative clauses are regularly adopted in the samples to give information about the responsibilities, qualifications and benefits as illustrated in the following examples
(6) Experience working with automotive or construction equipment (E6)
(7) Competitive salary and a highly attainable bonus structure (E14)
(8) Gửi khách hàng báo cáo về tính khả thi của sản phẩm mới (V1)
(9) Nói và viết tiếng Nhật hoặc tiếng Trung thành thạo (V2)
The use of elliptical declarative clauses in job advertisements effectively caters to the psychology of job seekers With the rise of economic globalization and technological advancements, job advertisements are proliferating across various platforms To identify the most suitable job opportunities, job seekers must efficiently sift through this abundance of listings and extract essential information quickly.
Job seekers anticipate that vacancy information is clearly and readily accessible Utilizing a list of elliptical declarative clauses effectively addresses this need Martin (1992) suggests that these clauses can reduce social distance, as job advertisements lack face-to-face interaction By incorporating elliptical clauses, the advertisements foster a sense of intimacy between employers and potential candidates.
Interrogative mood structures are infrequently used in job advertisements, with only 17 instances found in 15 English ads and just two in Vietnamese ads While interrogatives primarily serve to solicit information in systemic-functional grammar, they can also convey information This highlights the limited role of questions in job advertising discourse across both languages.
(10) Bạn là người năng động, yêu nghề, chịu đón nhận thử thách? (V4)
(11) Bạn muốn làm việc trong một môi trường năng động, có cơ hội thăng tiến, với chế độ lương thưởng hấp dẫn? (V4)
(12) Impressive? Sound good? Need more reasons to make you want to be part of our family? (E14)
(13) Where in the World is California Pizza Kitchen? (E14)
(14) What Makes California Pizza Kitchen Special? (E14)
The analysis of job advertisements reveals two types of interrogative forms: yes-no questions and WH-questions In the examined Vietnamese job ads, two out of four interrogative clauses are yes-no questions, while 14 out of 17 in the English ads are also yes-no questions These clauses do not seek information; instead, they provide potential employees with key details about job requirements and benefits The primary aim of these questions is to capture the reader's attention and highlight the vacancy's features Notably, some ads utilize elliptical yes-no questions, followed by the writer's affirming responses, enhancing engagement and interest.
Need more reasons to make you want to be part of our family? Okay, keep reading!)
In Examples 13 and 14, two WH-interrogative clauses are presented, which can be readily addressed within the text, as they precede the company's introduction The author poses these questions and subsequently provides answers, effectively conveying information about the company while also expressing a sense of pride in its achievements.
Imperative mood structures not only demand action but also serve to convey information in job advertisements For example, they can clearly outline responsibilities and expectations for potential candidates.
(15) Please provide us with a cover letter and resume, indicating the position for which you are applying+your compensation history/requirements (E2)
(16) For more information and to apply please see: www.austincityjobs.org (E6)
Các ứng viên quan tâm có thể nộp hồ sơ trực tiếp tại trụ sở Công ty Cổ phần Đầu tư Phát triển Máy Việt Nam Vui lòng liên hệ với chị Dung tại phòng HCNS để biết thêm chi tiết Địa chỉ công ty là Do Lộ, Yên Nghĩa.
A contrastive analysis in terms of modality
Halliday (1994) identifies mood and modality as crucial elements for conveying interpersonal meaning in discourse analysis Modality involves negotiating propositions and proposals along a spectrum of positive and negative polarity It encompasses various methods through which speakers can adjust or qualify their messages (Eggins & Slade, 1997) Halliday categorizes modality into two primary types: modalization and modulation, which will be explored in the context of their application in English and Vietnamese job advertisements.
Modalization, as discussed in section 1.1.2, refers to the likelihood or frequency with which a speaker or writer believes a proposition to be true, categorized into probability and usuality According to Halliday (1994), both finite modal operators and modal adjuncts can express these concepts Additionally, modality can be conveyed through metaphorical expressions, which will be further explored in the subsequent analysis.
Probability means how likely the speaker/writer thinks to be true Probability is realized in the corpus in the different ways as follows:
English job advertisements Vietnamese job advertisements expression frequency percent expression frequency percent modal operator low can 6 24% có thể
1 8% may 1 could 2 median will/won’t 20 61% sẽ
12 92% would 2 should 1 high must 4 10% 0 0% modal adjunct
Table 2.3 Distribution and frequency of probability in English and Vietnamese job advertisements
Both English and Vietnamese job advertisements predominantly utilize modal operators to express probability, with English samples featuring 36 occurrences compared to 13 in Vietnamese This indicates a higher frequency of modal operators in English job ads Additionally, low and median value modal operators dominate, comprising 85% of English and 100% of Vietnamese samples This trend suggests that both languages favor a consultative, hypothetical, and suggestive tone in job advertisements, rather than a compulsive, affirmative, or absolute approach.
In English job advertisements, the modal operator "will" is the most frequently used, mirroring its top position in Vietnamese with "sẽ." This highlights the importance of using "will" or "sẽ" to express probability in job postings.
(31) Các hồ sơ không đạt sẽ không được trả lại (V3)
(32) Đến với AI&T, bạn sẽ có những cơ hội lớn trong việc tiếp cận các công nghệ kỹ thuật mới nhất (V11)
(33) Ứng viên trúng tuyển sẽ làm việc tại thành phố Ninh Bình-tỉnh Ninh Bình (V13)
(34) This application process will take approximately15-20 minutes to complete (E5)
(35) Not only will you learn of jobs not advertised elsewhere, you’ll enjoy full confidentiality and an appropriate audience at best-in-class employers (E11)
(36) This person will develop applications and system integrations to support business applications (E15)
The modal operator "will" in English and "sẽ" in Vietnamese serves to convey predictions and intentions regarding future events, particularly in job advertisements As noted by Lyon (1997), "will" has a "promissory" function, positioning the writer as a guarantor of the stated outcomes In these job ads, "will" or "sẽ" outlines expected job responsibilities, potential benefits, and recruitment processes For example, it indicates that only qualified candidates will be contacted for interviews and specifies application timelines Additionally, it highlights the rewards associated with the position and clarifies job duties, helping candidates assess their fit for the role and effectively narrowing down applicants.
English job advertisements utilize a wider variety of modal operators to convey probability compared to their Vietnamese counterparts While English ads predominantly feature the modal operator "will," they also incorporate other median and low modal operators such as "would," "should," "can," "may," and "could." In contrast, Vietnamese job advertisements primarily rely on the low median operator "có thể" (may) These modal operators indicate varying degrees of probability, with English options being more probabilistic than guaranteed, highlighting the nuanced expression of potential outcomes in English job postings.
(37) You would be joining a team that is passionate about education and the lives we touch every day (E10)
(38) California Pizza Kitchen could be your new home (E14)
(39) An environment where you can express your unique talents and skills (E14)
(40) Experience may substitute for the education to a maximum of four years (E6)
(41) Food isn’t meant to be timeless; it should be a surprising yet accessible (E14)
(42) Có thể đi công tác xa, dài ngày (V10)
The high modal operator must is only employed in English job advertisements in the following instances:
(43) Your attitude must be positive, flexible, and focused, with an emphasis on a can do, hands on approach and philosophy (E2)
(44) You must be a passionate about your work (E3)
(45) So must enjoy small town living (E7)
The modal operator "must" is primarily utilized to outline essential position qualifications in job advertisements Its strong probability connotation suggests that this part of the job listing is critical and unequivocal, leaving little room for doubt.
It indicates that these requirements need to be emphasized and get special attention from the job hunters if they want to be future employees of the recruiting company
Halliday (1994) identifies modal adjuncts as a means to express modality; however, an analysis of English and Vietnamese corpora reveals a lack of modal adjuncts like "certainly," "possibly," and "probably" in probability descriptions Additionally, interpersonal metaphor appears in only 6% of English samples.
(46) Sound good? We think so! (E14)
(47) We know that it takes much more than a skill set to get the job done (E15)
In English advertising, advertisers often make subjective judgments about their products, emphasizing their unique qualities to enhance consumer understanding and engagement (Xu, 2009) By employing a subjective explicit orientation and taking responsibility for their claims, they effectively highlight the core advantages of their offerings This strategy is evident in English job advertisements, where advertisers express positive evaluations of their organizations' features, thereby positioning themselves favorably in consumer interactions.
The advertiser believes that the job demands more than just skills By incorporating projecting clauses like "I think" and "I know," the advertiser emphasizes their personal opinions, encouraging alignment from potential candidates Utilizing interpersonal modality enhances the advertiser's assertions, boosting credibility and appealing to a broader pool of job seekers.
Usuality refers to the frequency with which a speaker or writer believes a proposition to be true, often indicated by modal adjuncts like "usually," "sometimes," and "always." In Vietnamese samples, usuality is rarely expressed with just three modal operators, and it is absent in English samples The analysis of the corpus reveals these patterns of usuality in language use.
(48) ITECHCOMBANK với sứ mệnh trở thành ngân hàng tốt nhất và doanh nghiệp hàng đầu Việt Nam, luôn đi đầu trong việc ứng dụng công nghệ tiên tiến.(V5)
(49) Chúng tôi luôn nỗ lực để cán bộ nhân viên có điều kiện làm việc tốt nhất (V6)
(50) Với phương châm luôn trọng dụng nhân tài, lấy yếu tố con người làm trung tâm cho sự phát triển bền vững (V10)
In the provided examples, the modal operator "luôn" is strategically used by recruiters to emphasize the company's top rank in technology application for enhanced customer service Additionally, this modal operator conveys the company's ongoing commitment to providing optimal working conditions and benefits for employee development This persuasive approach aims to attract talented candidates to apply for positions within the organization.
Modulation, as defined by Halliday (1994), encompasses both obligation and inclination Obligation pertains to how strongly the speaker compels another person to follow a command, while inclination reflects the speaker's willingness to fulfill an offer.
Obligation is realized in the corpus in the different ways as follows:
English job advertisements Vietnamese job advertisements expression frequency percent expression frequency percent Finite modal operator high must 9 43% phải (must) 1 86% cần (need) 5 median should 2 9% 0
Passive verb predicator required 9 43% yêu cầu
Table 2.4 Distribution and frequency of obligation in English and Vietnamese job advertisements
Research indicates that both English and Vietnamese job advertisements commonly utilize finite modal operators to express obligation In English ads, the modal operator "must" is the most frequently used, whereas it appears only once in Vietnamese job listings Conversely, the Vietnamese modal operator "cần" is the most prevalent, with its English equivalent "need" not being used at all.
Để đảm bảo hoạt động sản xuất kinh doanh hiệu quả khi nhà máy chính thức đi vào hoạt động, công ty chúng tôi đang tuyển dụng các vị trí cần thiết.
(52) Chúng tôi đang cần tuyển dụng những nhân sự có năng lực, tâm huyết đồng hành cùng sự phát triển của TOPCOM (V6)
(53) Hồ sơ phải đầy đủ (Bằng Tiếng Việt) (V10)
(54) To be considered for this position, you must apply online at www.austincityjobs.org (E6)
(55) Qualified candidates must have experience in both Agricultural and Commercial lines of credit and underwriting experience (E7)
(56) Must be at least 18 years of age (E9)
A contrastive analysis in terms of the person system
Interpersonal meaning is conveyed through the person system, as noted by Carter (1997), who highlights that personal pronouns reflect the writer's relationship with the characters and the reader Halliday (1994) emphasizes that interpersonal meaning is realized not only through mood and modality but also through pronouns and possessives, which serve as essential components of interpersonal communication.
Job advertisements primarily involve the interaction between recruiters and job seekers, with the person system playing a crucial role in conveying interpersonal meaning This system reflects the recruiter's attitude towards the job hunter, influencing the perceived closeness or distance in their relationship The person system, a stable component of grammar, categorizes into first, second, and third person and is present in multiple languages, including English and Vietnamese The following table demonstrates the application of the person system within the analyzed corpus.
Types English job advertisements Vietnamese job advertisements
Expression Frequency Percent Expression Frequency Percent First
I 1 57% 63% we, us 79 chúng tôi (we, us) 19 our 73 của chúng tôi (our) 3
Second Person you 69 35% bạn, các bạn (you) 9 34% your 24 của bạn/của mình
Third Person they, them 8 8% 3% their, its 14 của mình(its) 1
Table 2.6 Distribution and frequency of the person system in English and Vietnamese job advertisements
The analysis reveals both similarities and differences in the use of personal pronouns in English and Vietnamese job advertisements Notably, first-person pronouns dominate, comprising 57% in English and 63% in Vietnamese, while third-person pronouns are least frequent, at 8% and 3%, respectively However, a significant disparity exists in the total number of personal pronouns used, with English advertisements featuring 268 instances compared to just 35 in Vietnamese ads This indicates that English job advertisers utilize personal pronouns more extensively Additionally, Vietnamese ads often use the form "của mình," typically interpreted as "my," but it can also represent the second possessive "your" or the third possessive "its," depending on context Further analysis will be provided in subsequent sections.
In job advertisements, first-person pronouns dominate, comprising 57% of all pronouns in English ads, primarily in the plural form such as "we," "us," and "our," with the singular "I" appearing only once Similarly, Vietnamese job ads reflect this trend, with first-person pronouns accounting for 63%, all in the plural form "chúng tôi." This prevalence of plural forms is attributed to the context of job advertising, where the advertisement represents a business or public entity, thus emphasizing the collective rather than individual identity.
In the context of language, the terms "inclusive" and "exclusive" play a significant role in communication (Buhler, 1990 as cited in Li 2001:130) Inclusive language creates a sense of belonging by assuming that readers share the writer's viewpoint, while exclusive language refers to groups that do not include the readers In Vietnamese, various forms of "we" convey different meanings and distinctions between inclusive and exclusive usage For instance, "chúng tôi" and "chúng ta" are used in polite contexts, whereas "chúng tao" is considered vulgar, and "chúng mình" indicates intimacy The terms "chúng tôi" and "chúng tao" are exclusive, excluding the audience, while "chúng mình" and "chúng ta" are inclusive, welcoming the addressed individuals into the group.
In job advertisements, the writer represents an institution that is separate from the job seeker, using exclusive pronouns like "we" in English and "chúng tôi" in Vietnamese.
Sự phát triển bền vững của công ty chúng tôi tạo ra cơ hội cho bạn để thử thách và nâng cao kỹ năng, kiến thức trong lĩnh vực kinh doanh.
(67) Chỉ nhận hồ sơ bản mềm qua địa chỉ email bằng cách nhấn vào nút Nộp đơn bên dưới để gửi trực tiếp đến chúng tôi (V15)
(68) Please provide us with a cover letter and resume, indicating the position for which you are applying+your compensation history/requirements (E2)
(69) We are extremely competitive, client-focused and realize that our value is in our ability to deliver the right solutions at the right time (E7)
The use of first-person pronouns such as "we," "our," and "us" effectively introduces the recruiting company, highlighting its background, employee benefits, and application methods This approach creates a conversational tone, making the advertiser's message feel more sincere and relatable to potential applicants Additionally, the exclusive use of "we" positions the recruiter as an authoritative figure, conveying confidence and a sense of obligation to job seekers.
The second person pronoun is used to address the listener in spoken communication and the reader in written texts In the context of job advertisements, these pronouns specifically target the intended audience, which primarily consists of job seekers.
In this analysis, second person pronouns are prevalent, comprising 35% of usage in English and 34% in Vietnamese, making them the second most common pronouns after first person pronouns Here are some representative examples illustrating the use of second person pronouns.
Tại TECHCOMBANK, mọi đóng góp của bạn được ghi nhận và khích lệ thông qua chính sách đãi ngộ hấp dẫn, phúc lợi vượt trội và cơ hội thăng tiến rõ ràng.
(71) Gia nhập vào đội ngũ nhân viên của Nhà hàng DWok là bạn sẽ tìm thấy đam mê trong công việc, nơi bạn tìm thấy khả năng của mình (V8)
(72) Are you looking for a role where demands are high, but so is job satisfaction? (E10)
(73)) Show us your customer skills and we will teach you the rest (E11)
The use of second person pronouns in job advertisements effectively engages readers, ensuring they feel personally addressed and involved This choice of language fosters a sense of closeness between the writer and the audience, encouraging reader participation By envisioning an ideal reader, advertisers can capture attention and create a conversational atmosphere, ultimately establishing a more intimate relationship with job seekers.
The third person pronouns cover the lowest percentage in the corpus They are mostly used to refer to the same person or object mentioned in a discourse
TECHCOMBANK tự hào nhận được nhiều giải thưởng quốc tế danh giá trong lĩnh vực tài chính ngân hàng, nhờ vào những nỗ lực không ngừng nghỉ của mình.
(75) Salary is commensurate with experience and our client offers their employees and their families a comprehensive benefits package (E4)
(76) The City of Austin, TX is an Equal Opportunity Employer and values diversity at all levels of its workforce (E6)
(77) Gpac is currently working with a fast growing bank in Northern North Dakota that is looking to add a Ag Lender to their team (E7)
The possessive expression "của mình" in Example (74) refers to TECHCOMBANK, not the job seeker, highlighting the company's efforts to attract talent In contrast, the plural "their" in Example (75) identifies the company's customers, while "its" and "their" in Examples (76) and (77) refer back to the recruiting company By utilizing third-person pronouns, the advertiser creates a sense of distance from the company, adopting an objective observer role to enhance the persuasiveness of the message.
The analysis of thirty English and Vietnamese job advertisements reveals both similarities and differences in their use of personal pronouns Both languages predominantly utilize first and second person pronouns, fostering a sense of dialogue between the advertiser and potential applicants, which helps to bridge the gap between them Additionally, both English and Vietnamese advertisers employ exclusive pronouns like "we" and "chúng tôi" alongside third person pronouns to convey authority and objectivity However, a notable difference is that English job advertisements tend to use personal pronouns more frequently than their Vietnamese counterparts, resulting in a greater number of conversational elements in English ads compared to Vietnamese ones.
Recapitulation
This thesis conducts a contrastive analysis of interpersonal meaning in English and Vietnamese job advertisements using systemic functional grammar It outlines the study's rationale, significance, aims, and methodology Chapter 1 provides an overview of interpersonal meaning, focusing on the situational context and tenor specific to job advertisements The analysis delves into mood, modality, and the person system in both languages, revealing how advertisers engage with job seekers through language The study identifies both similarities and differences in the realization of interpersonal meaning between English and Vietnamese job advertisements.
In job advertisements, declarative structures dominate both English and Vietnamese corpora, primarily providing information about job vacancies and prompting reader actions However, English ads utilize imperatives, interrogatives, and conditional structures to foster a sense of dialogue, effectively reducing the social distance between employers and job seekers In contrast, Vietnamese job advertisements rarely incorporate these interactive elements, resulting in a diminished sense of dialogue and intimacy between recruiting companies and potential candidates.
In examining modality, both corpora reveal that probability and obligation are prioritized over usuality and inclination The prevalence of probability suggests that the accuracy of propositions is a primary concern for recruiters and job seekers in both cultures Notably, the English corpus shows a significantly higher frequency of obligation compared to inclination, whereas in the Vietnamese corpus, both categories appear with equal frequency.
In both English and Vietnamese job advertisements, the use of personal pronouns, including exclusive "we" and "chúng tôi," alongside third-person pronouns, serves to convey authority and objectivity Both languages favor first-person pronouns over second-person pronouns, fostering a dialogue that enhances intimacy and reduces social distance between recruiters and applicants However, Vietnamese job advertisements tend to utilize fewer personal pronouns compared to their English counterparts, resulting in less conversational engagement.
Job advertisements in both English and Vietnamese share the common goal of soft-selling, primarily providing information about the company and the vacancy while encouraging job seekers to apply Similarities arise from the linguistic structures in both languages, such as mood, modal expressions, and person systems that convey interpersonal meaning However, differences stem from cultural disparities and language nuances, where one word in English may have multiple Vietnamese equivalents and vice versa While Western cultures favor direct communication and individualism, Vietnamese culture leans towards indirect expression and collectivism English advertisers often use interrogatives, imperatives, and personal pronouns to foster dialogue, whereas Vietnamese advertisers, despite their authority, tend to adopt a more polite tone, favoring declarative statements and a less compelling approach.
Implications of the study
The following implications can be made from the research:
Research demonstrates that systemic functional grammar is applicable to the analysis of advertising discourse, specifically in job advertisements, across both English and Vietnamese contexts.
The present study highlights the importance of crafting effective job advertisements for recruiting companies, emphasizing that informative and persuasive writing is essential for attracting top talent Advertisers are encouraged to utilize declarative and interrogative sentences, as these approaches reduce pressure on potential applicants and capture their attention more effectively Additionally, incorporating inclination structures to showcase rewards and benefits can enhance the appeal of the advertisement The use of personal pronouns is also recommended to foster a sense of dialogue between advertisers and prospective employees Furthermore, this research serves as a valuable resource for job seekers, enabling them to sift through advertisements and identify the most suitable opportunities.
The research is valuable for writing, translation, and linguistics classes In writing classes, instructors should emphasize the importance of analyzing job advertisements to craft effective job application letters, noting the differences in interpersonal meaning between English and Vietnamese ads In translation classes, students should be guided to translate English imperative structures into more polite Vietnamese declarative forms, adjust obligation tones to inclination tones, and convert passive voice to active voice while minimizing personal pronouns to reduce confusion Additionally, in linguistics classes that introduce Systemic Functional Grammar (SFG), this research can provide a practical framework for students to analyze real-life texts.
Limitations and suggestions for further study
This study has several limitations, including a small corpus of only 30 job advertisements, which suggests that a larger dataset is necessary for more comprehensive research Additionally, the data was exclusively sourced from websites, indicating that exploring various media could provide valuable insights for future studies Furthermore, the research focused on three specific aspects: mood, modality, and the person system, but there are other methods to convey interpersonal meaning Therefore, integrating multiple perspectives in the study of interpersonal meaning is recommended for a more holistic approach.
In "Working with Texts," Carter (1997) explores the intricacies of textual analysis, emphasizing the importance of context in understanding meaning Meanwhile, Đỗ Long and Phan Thị Mai Hương (2002) examine the concepts of collectivism and individualism in contemporary Vietnam, highlighting the evolving notion of "the self" within the cultural framework Both works contribute to a deeper understanding of how texts and cultural identity interact in a globalized world.
Systemic Functional Linguistics (SFL) is a framework that emphasizes the social function of language, as introduced by Eggins in her 2004 work This approach is further explored in "Analyzing Casual Conversation" by Eggins and Slade (1997), which delves into the dynamics of everyday interactions Halliday's foundational text, "An Introduction to Functional Grammar" (1985), establishes key principles of SFL, highlighting the importance of context in understanding grammatical structures Together, these works provide a comprehensive overview of how language operates within social contexts.
Halliday, M A K (1994) An Introduction to Functional Grammar (Second edition) London: Edward Arnold
Halliday, M A K and Hasan, R (2001) Cohesion in English London: Longman Halliday, M.A.K & Matthiessen, C (2004) An Introduction to Functional
Grammar (Third edition) London: Arnold
Li, Z (2001) On the Interpersonal Meaning of Reflexive Expressions in
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Political advertisements in select Nigerian newspapers play a significant role in shaping public opinion and influencing electoral outcomes According to a study published in the International Journal of Humanities and Social Science, these advertisements utilize various strategies to engage voters and convey political messages effectively The research highlights the impact of mood and modality in communication, as discussed by Palmer (1986), emphasizing how language choices can affect audience perception Understanding these dynamics is crucial for both political candidates and voters in navigating the electoral landscape.
Quirk et al (1985: 219) A Comprehensive Grammar of the English Language
Sinaga, G P (2012) The Interpersonal Strategies of Hotel and Apartment
Advertisements in the Now! Jarkarta Life in the Capital Magazine Retrieved on September 14, 2013 from: http://ejournal.upi.edu/index.php/ELTI/article/download/26/4
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Thompson, G (2000) Introducing Functional Grammar Beijing: Foreign
Language Teaching and Research Press
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Journal of Advertising Research 150(6) Retrieved on September 25,
2013, from: http://journals.cambridge.org/action/displayJournal?jid=JAR
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Journal, 2(4) Retrieved on December 12, 2013, from: www.ccsenet.org/journal.html
Yan and Li (2007) conducted a study examining interpersonal meaning in internet job advertisements, highlighting how language influences the perception of job roles Their research, published in the Journal of Anhui Agricultural University (Social Science Edition), emphasizes the importance of effective communication in attracting potential candidates The findings suggest that the choice of words and phrases in job ads can significantly impact the applicant's understanding and interest in the position This study provides valuable insights for employers aiming to enhance their recruitment strategies through improved language use in job postings.
(Notice: The following English job advertisements are from www.jobmonster.com)
E1-http://jobview.monster.com/director-of-financial-planning-job-houston-tx-us- 128164165.aspx
Anybody can have a job, but we'll give you a career
Room for advancement, training and development and the ability to thrive in a fast paced ever changing environment
Director of Financial Planning HOUSTON CHRONICLE Houston, Texas
We are CURRENTLY HIRING a Director of Financial Planning to contribute their talents to our growing Finance team
- Spearhead the annual budget process
- Spearhead the monthly projection process
- Analyze data to explain trends and variances from plan/forecast
- Prepare, provide and present reports to management and make recommendations
- Provide in-depth analysis of business results, identifying emerging opportunities
- Provide valuable insight into our Digital efforts
- Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance or related field required
- 3+ years experience in managing staff
- 2+ years experience in Digital analytics
- 5+ years experience in financial analysis and reporting
- Demonstrated ability to interact effectively with all levels in the organization
- Excellent consultative and presentation skills
- Strong attention to detail, along with effective oral and written communication skills
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite
- Competitive salary and benefits package to include
- Medical, dental, vision, life insurance
- Short/Long term disability -Generous paid time off
- Opportunity to work for one of the nation's largest diversified media and information organizations
Apply to: https://hearstnewspaperscareerlinks.silkroad.com/
We are an Equal Opportunity Employer
Our employees enjoy a competitive base salary along with commission and bonus incentives, complemented by a comprehensive benefits package that includes medical, dental, and vision plans, flexible benefits, life insurance, a wellness policy, a disability plan, and a 401K Additionally, we offer access to a credit union, vacation time, holidays, and paid time off (PTO).
Hearst Corporation is one of the nation's largest diversified media companies, with newspaper, magazine, broadcast, interactive media and syndication divisions It publishes
15 daily newspapers and top magazines, and operates television and radio stations, business to business information services and electronic databases
E2-http://jobview.monster.com/office-manager-job-glastonbury-ct-us-126949290.aspx
OperationsInc, a human resources consulting firm, is assisting a leading Microsoft-based software solutions company in Glastonbury, CT, in their search for an Office Manager Recognized as Microsoft’s fastest growing retail partner in 2012, the company is currently experiencing an impressive 30% annual growth rate and is eager to expand its team with a qualified candidate.
In this multi-faceted role your diverse responsibilities will include Marketing, Inside Sales and Light Accounting & Bookkeeping
Ideal candidates should demonstrate a robust understanding of business and client services, maintaining a positive, adaptable, and focused attitude Emphasizing a proactive, hands-on approach is essential for success in this role.
Provide marketing support to the President and Sales staff as needed Prepare marketing materials, mailers, brochures and e-mail marketing Coordinate industry trade shows and events
Inside sales support including providing sales quotes processing orders Respond to potential new client inquiries and fulfill requests as necessary Manage accounts payable and receivables in Quickbooks
College degree Minimum 2-3 years of experience supporting a busy office environment and interfacing with customers
Knowledge of MS Office (Word, Excel, Publisher and Outlook); QuickBooks and Excel; knowledge of contact database software ACT a plus
Strong organizational skills, attention-to-detail, flexibility, and in-depth knowledge of general business operations
Salary is commensurate with experience and our client offers their employees and their families a comprehensive benefits package that includes medical andretirement benefits, private parking, and the dress is casual
Qualified candidates can email us at jobs@syssolutionsllc.com Please provide us with a cover letter and resume, indicating the position for which you are applying + your compensation history/requirements
E3-http://jobview.monster.com/general-manager-123print-job-waynesboro-pa-us- 128185496.aspx
123Print is on the lookout for a seasoned leader with a proven track record in building and managing online businesses driven by internet sales If you possess strong sales acumen, strategic planning skills, and a hands-on approach, we want you to join our team as a trailblazer and coach to elevate our company to new heights.
We seek passionate individuals who can inspire others and confidently lead our team while fostering strong relationships with clients Your ability to think forward and generate innovative ideas will play a crucial role in driving profitable growth and enhancing our market presence Candidates should aspire to be integral to our company, making a significant impact on our business 123Print operates independently but benefits from the support of our globally recognized parent organization, Taylor Corporation, which handles all manufacturing processes.
Successful experience leading an e-commerce business which transacts business over the web
Ability to positively influence people
Understanding and experience selling goods in the small business retailmarket place
Demonstrated leadership and communication abilities, across both large and small organizations
Entrepreneurial spirit to drive business goals & objectives
Ability to translate vision and strategy into process-based execution and results
Since 2006, 123Print has established itself as a leader in the personalized printing marketplace, enabling customers to express their creativity affordably and effortlessly We offer professional and customized business identity and marketing products, featuring same-day service and low-cost shipping For more information about 123Print, visit www.123Print.com, and to learn about our parent company, Taylor Corporation, go to www.taylorcorp.com.
E4-http://jobview.monster.com/fire-sprinkler-design-manager-job-omaha-ne-us- 128864624.aspx
We are a growing company and we need you!
We are looking for a Fire Sprinkler Design Manager to lead the division We offer a phenomenal benefits package and starting salaries as well as a great team atmosphere and transparent management
We are looking for a positive personality who has a "can do" attitude and approaches every day with a hunger to succeed
We are located in Eastern South Dakota; relocation would be required for this position
Oversee projects from initial estimates through completion
Guide the education and certification of field staff
Participate in project scheduling, budgeting, and forecasting as the Division representative
Able to assist in estimating and design of projects
NICET II or III qualified
Estimating software experience to include CAD
Previous experience with both wet and dry systems, pre-action and deluge systems
2+ years of experience in a supervisory role
This is a true growth opportunity for an experienced Fire Sprinkler Designer; don't miss out
Click the link to apply now, or call Darrin TeBeest directly at 605-978-5477 to confidentially discuss this position Relocation to Eastern South Dakota is required for this opportunity
GPAC (Growing People and Companies) is an acclaimed search firm with 23 years of experience in connecting top professionals across various industries in the United States Our competitive and client-centric approach emphasizes our commitment to providing timely and effective solutions tailored to meet our clients' needs.
E5-http://jobview.monster.com/customer-service-representative-patient-care- respiratory-services-medical-equipment-job-ft-myers-fl-us-128112616.aspx
Since 1981, Rotech has established itself as a national leader in home medical equipment and respiratory services, offering nebulizer medications for home use With a dedicated workforce of over 4,500 employees, Rotech ensures quality service and exceptional patient care through approximately 500 locations across 48 states.
Customer Service Representative - Patient Care/Respiratory Services/Medical Equipment
Join the Leader in the Home Healthcare Industry!
Let us be Your Road to Success
Rotech Healthcare Inc is seeking a dedicated Customer Service
We're seeking a compassionate Representative to join our team, making a meaningful impact on patients' lives by coordinating the intake of patient information for durable medical equipment and respiratory services and supplies, ensuring seamless communication and task execution in this critical role.
Communicates with patients/clients and referral sources both verbally and in writing to ensure patient/client questions and concerns are processed in a timely manner
Coordinates all patient information, processes paperwork, including preparation of file for Billing Department, and completes batch reports for UPS deliveries
Complies with all applicable company policies and procedures to meet JCAHO and company standards
Processes paperwork-confirms tickets, inputs new patient set-ups, and assembles charts
Completes SOPs/CMNs and documents on tracking log
Verifies Medicare, Medicaid, and private insurance coverage information
Clears previous day’s route and checks all paperwork for accuracy and completeness
Prepares deposit for location on a weekly basis
Provides service for all retail/walk-in equipment requests
High school diploma or GED equivalent
Employment is contingent upon a drug screening test and background investigation
Experience in medical field and administrative record management
Knowledge of medical billing practices
Knowledge of insurance policies and requirements
Career Path and Management opportunities
Health and wellness benefits to include medical, dental, prescription and vision plans, short term and long term disability, supplemental life insurance and flexible spending accounts
Take the first step towards your career with Rotech Healthcare Inc by contacting us today! The application process is quick and will only take about 15-20 minutes to finish Our hiring manager will carefully review your resume and reach out if your qualifications align with our requirements Thank you for your interest in joining our team!