Learning a second language can improve your job and career prospects

Learning a second language requires a big investment of time and effort to achieve a working level of fluency. While there is enormous satisfaction to be gained in the learning process in its own right, it is good to know, particularly in these challenging times, that learning a second language can significantly enhance your career and job prospects. Second language skills are much sought after in both the U.S. and the UK putting rest to the idea that English is the sole passport to international business success.

The U.S. perspective

The influential Commitee for Economic Developement continues to push for improved foreign language education in the United States. An influential group of seventy-six leaders from business and higher education have officially endorsed the recommendations of the 2006 CED statement Education for Global Leadership: The Importance of International Studies and Foreign Language Education for U. S. Economic and National Security. That report warns that the U.S. will become less competitive in the global economy because of declining quality foreign language education at the college and high school level. Set out below are two quotes taken directly from the report:

Knowledge of Foreign Languages and Cultures is an Economic Necessity

It is becoming increasingly important for U.S. companies of all sizes to succeed in overseas markets. Many small- and medium-sized businesses from New England to the Pacific Northwest are now finding it necessary to do business in the languages and cultural environments of the world's emerging markets. Some small businesses especially need employees with foreign-language skills, as managers must often communicate directly with foreign customers. However, small companies are not able to acquire employees with foreign-language expertise as easily as multinationals. Without foreign-language skills and cultural knowledge, small businesses face greater difficulties exporting to overseas markets.

U.S. Employees Lack Foreign Language Skills and International Knowledge

Many corporations, especially multinationals, tend to emphasize cultural competence more than foreign language skills, but many still rate language skills as important. In fact, in one survey of human resource managers, participants reported that proficiency in a foreign language was a consideration in hiring decisions at 42 percent of firms, and 66 percent considered it in making retention decisions ("Foreign Language Needs of U.S. Businesses," Journal of Education for Business, vol. 75, iss. 3, January/February (2000)). For businesses of all sizes, having an appreciation for cultural differences and a global business perspective are very important for all employees and managers, even for those in domestic positions. Looking across all sectors (public, for profit, non-profit), cross-cultural competence was rated as the fifth most important attribute (of nineteen) of a successful professional in an organization with a global mission. Employees who demonstrate cultural competence are more likely to be selected for and perform well on global teams, which can lead to greater success and advancement within the organization.

The UK perspective

The 'CBI/Edexcel Education & Skills Survey 2008' of 735 firms, employing 1.7 million people between them, identifies skills gaps in the workplace, and reveals the skills and qualifications most valued by employers. Conversational ability in languages was seen as highly desirable, with 75% of senior executives saying they look for this skill in applicants, as they see this as a means of building relationships and showing businesses abroad that UK firms are prepared to make the effort. Meanwhile 48% of firms are currently actively recruiting people specifically for their language skills. The main demand is still for European languages, with 50% wanting French, 49% German and 41% Spanish. However, four in ten (43%) are interested in Mandarin/Cantonese as they look to break into new emerging markets.

See the summary and download the full report.

Time to Act

With increased globalization of world trade there has never been a more important time to be able to speak a second language. If you've ever considered brushing up you language skills now is the perfect time to start, and a subscription to Champs-Elysees' Audio Magazines (in French, German, Italian and Spanish) is one of the most cost-effective, entertaining and rewarding ways of helping you achieve this goal.

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