31 May 2023

5 best foreign languages to learn for your career

Globalisation has rendered the ability to speak multiple languages an essential skill, especially for individuals seeking to advance their careers. While English is generally known as the lingua franca of international business, speaking additional languages provides a competitive edge for job seekers. Whether you are looking to expand your career options or simply broaden your horizons, here are five popular foreign languages to learn:

1. English

English is the most commonly spoken language in the world, with over 1.5 billion people speaking it fluently. In today’s globalised industry, language proficiency is essential for succeeding in the business world. Many companies, especially multinational-based ones, require workers to be proficient in English. Proficiency in English is a prized asset for job seekers pursuing opportunities in the UK, Canada,  US and other English-speaking countries.

2. Mandarin Chinese

The number of Chinese classes in Singapore is expected to increase as more individuals are now aware that learning and speaking Mandarin can open up career opportunities in industries such as trade, finance, and international relations. As China’s economic influence continues to expand globally, Mandarin Chinese has become an important language for individuals seeking to conduct business in Asia. .  Furthermore, the rapid expansion of China’s middle class signifies a growing demand for luxury goods and services from the West, presenting a lucrative market for businesses. Learning Mandarin is an essential skill for job seekers to tap into this potential market.

3. French

French is the  official language in 29 countries and is widely used in international organisations such as the United Nations and the European Union. It is spoken by over 200 million people across the globe. Proficiency in French is highly beneficial for individuals seeking employment opportunities in Europe or Africa, particularly in industries such as luxury goods, hospitality, and tourism.

4. Spanish

With over 500 million speakers around the world, Spanish is a runner-up to Mandarin Chinese as the second-most spoken language in the world. It is the official language in 21 countries, with the majority in Latin America. If you are looking to work in industries such as international trade, finance, or tourism, Spanish proficiency can be an advantage. Apart from attending Mandarin classes in Singapore, joining other language lessons like Spanish also provides greater exposure to different cultures and knowledge, making it an opportunity for personal growth.

5. German

Germany is the largest economy in Europe and home to many international companies such as BMW, Siemens, and Deutsche Bank. As the most widely spoken language in Europe, German is a valuable language for anyone looking to work in the region. Proficiency in German can be particularly advantageous in fields such as engineering, technology, and finance. In addition, German proficiency can also help job seekers work in other German-speaking countries such as Austria and Switzerland.

All in all, job seekers who can speak more than one language may have the upper hand. Apart from English, learning additional languages is a merit for anyone looking to work in international companies. Learning the foreign languages mentioned above can empower greater career opportunities and open doors to new and exciting professional experiences.

Learn more: The Role of Languages in Modern Day

At Stanford Language Center, we offer basic conversational courses for languages. Our native trainers provide a holistic and all-rounded approach, imparting relevant skills needed to master the languages. Looking to learn Mandarin and other languages online? Get in touch now if you have any inquiries.