In a global economy the demand for language skills from employers is on the increase. Learning a second language can help increase your child’s career earning potential when they enter the world of work. In the United Kingdom, it is estimated that two-thirds of businesses look to recruit staff with foreign language skills. A language skill gives an employee an in-demand skill that the majority of the workforce does not possess. This gives the employee a high value and transferable skill, incentivising a higher reward from the employer. This is particularly true when supported by a language immersion experience in the host country, as this provides a demonstration of the ability to use the skill in a native setting.
Language Skills as Competitive Advantage The recession and subsequent recovery have highlighted the competitiveness for jobs within the global economy. When applying for jobs, potential employees are competing with others from around the world, for the same position. Therefore, it is vital that your child has the skills that employers are looking for when hiring. One of the most in-demand skills is fluency in a foreign language. This is not just for jobs that have a direct requirement, but also for jobs where this may only be a minor or peripheral part of the job. Sometimes employers will look for language skills even if they are not going to be directly required, because the possession of a second language highlights a commitment, passion, and ability to master a difficult skill.
Why Learn A Language? With increased earning potential and an advantage over those who speak only one language, the evidence suggests that learning an additional one will have long term benefits for your child. At Lingoo we provide your child with the opportunity to immerse themselves in the language they are learning, through a language exchange or homestay language exchange which helps them develop and hone the language skills that will help them throughout their life. Additional resources Foreign languages in demand by UK businesses - https://www.ft.com/content/e2318352-f897-11e3-815f-00144feabdc0