Multilingual Business Benefits

¿Habla español? Parlez-vous francais? Or do you only speak English? Learning another language and running a multilingual business could be the key to enhancing your career.

Remote workers and freelancers interact globally, so communicating in another language can expand your market exponentially. Even those who work in once region can see the benefits – as the United States becomes more diverse, language skills become more vital. 

Read on for some of the ways brushing up those language skills can benefit your business!  

A scientific study showed the link between language, culture, and cognition, demonstrating how learning a different language can influence the way you see the world. It can also provide insight into the way your foreign colleague may be thinking, thus breaking down walls and allowing for smoother business relationships.  

Looking for a new gig or career? Language skills beyond English can make you a more desirable candidate in the global marketplace, and you don’t have to be fluent. Even when the job doesn’t require another language, recruiters and employers are looking for versatile individuals who are motivated and committed to their own success.

With a second or third language under your belt, you’ll be more qualified for travel and business trips. Forget that conference in Indianapolis – your company will look to you for help with the Paris merger. Get your passport ready!

Spanish-speaking communities are increasing in size across the United States, and they are spending money. Tap into those communities to create new connections and business leads. You will be surprised at how much you can learn from them! In the Asheville area, Descubre Asheville is doing just that with a bilingual blog and event listings for tourists and locals.

Studies show that being multilingual enables your brain to shift “from the immediate intuitive system to a more deliberate mode of thinking.” Let go of biases and consider the situation in another language. You may make a better decision!

Bilingual people, on average, earn more money. This is relative to your field, but even a small bump in pay can improve your quality of life. Different languages have different power regarding earnings, so do some research as to what language provides the best value for your field of work.

So, what are you waiting for? Start by downloading a language-learning app like Duolingo or Rosetta Stone and get going! You may also find continuing education classes at your local community college or meetup groups designed for language practice. Watch your favorite movie on Netflix in your new language, and see what words you recognize. 

Once you learn a second language, it becomes easier to learn a third…you’ll be a successful, multilingual business pro in no time!