Lykkers, how many languages do you know? Multilingualism is a crucial skill in today's job market. Being able to speak and learn different languages makes each individual an integral part of an increasingly interconnected and multicultural global market.
Knowledge of foreign languages is useful not only for finding employment and being competitive professionally but also for personal growth.
Understanding the world and the ability to travel and build relationships across the globe can only be achieved by expanding linguistic horizons and competencies. However, individuals possessing these skills are not as numerous as they should be, particularly as the job market demands them. Many companies, especially those with a strong international focus, struggle to find young people who can speak at least one foreign language. To become true global citizens, it is necessary to push for an educational system that prioritizes language learning.
Languages to Learn for Work (Beyond English)
Given these considerations, which languages are most useful to study and learn for future careers? Which languages are in demand in the 2019 job market apart from English? Concentrating one's efforts and resources on mastering specific languages, among the approximately 7000 spoken globally, requires knowledge of those most important for business communication.
English is, naturally, the primary language skill to enhance and showcase on a resume. It is a universal language that is easy to learn due to its straightforward alphabet, syntax, and grammar. English is the official language in over 50 countries, spoken by around 400 million people. Although only 10% of this population are native speakers, English is the most widely used language globally for information exchange and dissemination. Fluency in English enhances opportunities to work abroad or in companies operating in the international market.
French, the Second Most Studied Language Worldwide
French is one of the official languages of the European Union and holds significant value in diplomatic and institutional contexts. It is the second most studied language globally, the second most widely spoken in Europe (with 12% native speakers compared to 38% for English), and is spoken on all continents by 290 million people.
Spanish, the Second Most Spoken Language Worldwide
After Chinese, Spanish is the second most spoken language globally. With over 470 million native speakers, it is the official language in over 30 countries, mostly in Latin America. Spanish is also widely spoken in North America, with projections indicating more than 60 million Hispanics will reside in the United States by 2020.
Like French, Spanish is an official language of the European Union and the United Nations, ranking third on the list of most used languages on the Internet after English and Chinese.
German, the Language for International Career Advancement
German is the most spoken language in Europe, being the native language of several countries including Switzerland, Luxembourg, Austria, Belgium, and South Tyrol. With approximately 150 million native speakers and 80 million people speaking it as a second language, German is essential for business and career opportunities, especially in the automotive and technology sectors.
Russian, the Language of the Largest Country in the World
Russia, the largest country globally, with around 280 million native speakers, offers significant advantages for establishing relationships with consumers and businesses. With English not widely spoken in Russia, knowledge of Russian can facilitate business and diplomatic relations, as well as tourism.
Chinese, the Language of the Future
Chinese, the most spoken language globally with over 950 million native speakers and 200 million learners, is gaining influence in the digital sector and beyond. China's growing global impact makes Mandarin essential for career prospects, challenging English's supremacy as a global business language.
Arabic, Bridge Between East and West
Arabic is the official language in 28 Middle Eastern countries, relevant to Western economies and diplomatic relations. Knowledge of Arabic is crucial for various fields, including translation, journalism, tourism, international diplomacy, trade, logistics, and migrant support services.
By mastering these languages, individuals can increase their employability, create business opportunities, and contribute to building stronger international relationships.
