Getting Ahead with a Second Language

By Susan M. Keenan

Learning a second language can have more benefits than simply being able to ask for directions the next time you visit a foreign country. Of course, being able to converse in the native language of the people around you while you are on vacation is an added plus. However, long-range benefits exist as well, particularly in the job market.

Bilingual individuals have a greater opportunity for acquiring employment than individuals who speak only their native language. Many companies are looking to expand to the different corners of the world where English is not the only language spoken. In fact, many companies have already expanded their horizons. These very same companies are looking to hire individuals who are fluent in at least two languages if not more.

However, before you list that you are bilingual on that resume of yours, make sure that you fully understand what it means to be bilingual or fluent in a language other than your native tongue. Fluency in a language is multi-faceted. Not only must the individual be capable of speaking the language correctly, but also, he or she must be capable of reading, writing, and understanding the spoken language competently.

If an individual is competent in more than one language, it gives him or her an edge over someone who is not. Have you ever been to an airport and noticed how many languages are displayed prominently on the signs? Have you ever noticed that airports in certain locales favor certain languages, while airports in other locales seem to favor other languages?

Whether or not you have noticed this, the fact remains that international business is growing larger every day and the need for translators is growing right along with it. It also means that a need for individuals, who are fluent in a variety of languages, including Japanese, Korean, Spanish, German, Chinese, French, Arabic, and more, exists in the modern world.

Obviously, certain businesses are going to display a greater need for translators than others. In fact, some businesses won’t even be looking for a translator, but rather, they will be actively searching for an individual who fits the profile of an up and coming employee with success written all over his or her resume and a second language slipping ever so naturally off his or her silver tongue.

In fact, companies that provide services or products to a multi-national customer base are always on the look out for individuals who can speak more than one language. Customer service representatives, government employees, health care workers, teachers, and many more are positions that can benefit from the ability to speak another language.

Consider learning a second language or even a third, especially if you are ambitious and enterprising. Learning to speak, read, and write a second language is not an easy task for everyone, so consider your choices carefully. Once you begin to study your new language, stay focused and determined for a reasonable amount of time. Remember that you weren’t born with your native language on the tip of your tongue, so this too will take time.

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