Why should you put time and effort into learning a language? Will knowing another language help you stand out from the crowd when it comes to hiring? So, the answer is, yes, there are benefits to learning a foreign language. Today, we live in a global marketplace where someone in Africa can conduct business with someone in South America almost instantly. But the issue is that there are hundreds of different languages spoken throughout the world.
Therefore, it is difficult to communicate with those on the receiving end at times. That is why communicating in multiple languages is so important in business today. In this way, devoting time to learning another language can pay off handsomely. One of the first benefits of language learning is the ability to broaden your network. Further, it enables you to communicate with people who do not speak your native language.
Hence, you’ll be available for international collaborations and partnerships with companies and influencers. Employers are increasingly valuing the ability to communicate in a foreign language. Thus, becoming bilingual or multilingual can advance your career by immediately increasing your chances of doing business or finding work on a global scale. Language skills open doors to new possibilities.
Here are some of the advantages of improving your language skills for your career.
1. Your CV becomes noticeable
Whatever job you apply for, competition can be fierce. Being aware of a second or third language is a great way to make your CV noticeable in the crowd, especially if the rest of your skills or experience are similar to those of other applicants. It is especially true in multinational corporations, where employees are expected to communicate with people from other countries. Employers will see that you are dynamic and up for a challenge if you learn a language.
2. You can seek multilingual careers
Speaking a foreign language is a valuable asset for these jobs:
- Translator/Interpreter
- Journalist/Writer
- Social Worker
- Law Enforcement Officer
- ESL Teaching/Tutoring
Further, Diplomacy in Foreign Service Specialist (FSS), Foreign Service Officer (FSO) Consular Fellow, Embassy Intern.
3. You build better relationships at work
Whether you’re speaking to a coworker, a supplier, or a client, using that person’s native language immediately makes them feel more at ease, even if they speak English. Learning a language also allows you to understand another person’s culture better and, as a result, their point of view. Combining this with your new ability to analyze situations and solve problems will cultivate excellent relationships and help your job last longer.
4. Lead a trip abroad to teach
As more schools and universities recognize the value of sending students abroad, teaching opportunities abound. Depending on your availability, you might consider leading a short-term trip, such as one during spring break. Check out job boards or reach out to local schools to see what options are available. Therefore, consider going abroad to teach English or Chinese, maybe if you have a larger window of availability. Or else, if you’re taking a gap year before starting college. Many programs hire people who have never taught before.
5. Self employed translator
Using your bilingual or multilingual skills, you can earn money by translating articles, books, websites, and other types of text. Word-of-mouth is the most common way to land these positions, and there is a sizable market for it. Moreover, if you have colleagues, family, or friends who are expanding their businesses internationally, translating marketing materials for them can be a great way to supplement your income. You can also try listing your services on freelancing websites.
Verdict
Thus, if you have other career goals, don’t let your language skills go to waste. Rest assured, numerous appealing and creative options can comfortably supplement full-time work. This way earns you extra money and keeps you involved in languages. Not only this but scientists discovered that those who had learned a foreign language were more open to different problem-solving approaches. Similar research has found that knowing multiple languages helps your brain stay calm and function optimally in stressful situations.
