As international and domestic travel becomes easier and safer – are you thinking about the hills of Tuscany, or charm of Paris, or maybe the intrigue of Koreatown in Los Angeles? If you can speak a foreign language the trip can be so much more than just a visit.
Have you ever been asked if you speak another language in a job interview? Your career possibilities open if you are bilingual. Businesses, social service agencies, health care and other organizations value the ability to communicate with clients in their native languages. According to a recent posting by Creatella, an online language provider, these are some of the key advantages:
Learning a Foreign Language to Create Job Opportunities
Being fluent in two or more languages gives you an edge over monolingual candidates in job interviews. These opportunities exist in all companies and departments which range from marketing to tourism. It is hardly surprising that many corporations require multiple language ability.
Gives You an Edge in Interviews
Your ability to speak another language can improve your appeal and get preference over other monolingual candidates. Knowing a second language boosts your chances of landing jobs amongst a group of other candidates with similar abilities.
Command Higher Salaries
Employees who learn a foreign language command a higher salary. A recruitment agency recently stated that knowing another language can increase your salary 15%. United States military personnel also receive higher wages for knowing a foreign language, roughly $1000 extra every month.
Career Growth Opportunities
Being able to speak a foreign language does not limit you in going abroad to do business provided that you know the language of the country you are heading to. Small companies need multilingual employees who can help them explore new business opportunities in foreign countries or in their own communities
Relationship Building
Having the ability to speak a second or third language transcends spoken dialogue and allows you to relate to different cultural groups in a personal manner. Speaking to anyone in their own language breaks down barriers and allows them to feel more comfortable and confident.
Appeal to Global Companies
International companies tend to widen their reach across the globe by hiring candidates who can blend in seamlessly with other cultures and fill the communication gap between them and their clients.
Whether to communicate with relatives in your country of origin on that bucket list trip or connect on a deeper level with people who you meet in your travels for business, learning a second language can enhance your experience.
No Comments