Alun Hill – Talking About Business 30 Years of Success
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Can you speak a second language?
In many parts of the world, learning a second language is commonplace.
Throughout Asia, for example, children start learning English before the age of five. 53% of Europeans can hold a conversation in another language. Meanwhile, only 18% of Americans can speak a second language.
There’s no shortage of benefits to learning another language. Not only does knowing a second language help you connect and travel better. It can also expand your horizons when it comes to your career.
What are the best languages for business? Which ones should you consider learning to help you professionally?
Here are the 8 best languages to learn for business.
1. Mandarin Chinese
English might be the predominant universal language. But Mandarin Chinese is increasingly becoming the most spoken language in the world.
China dominates the world economy and is home to some of the biggest industries on the planet. Between clean energy production, manufacturing, and agriculture, China has it all.
Mining, high-tech, and healthcare are booming in China, as well. E-commerce also flourishes in China.
Do you do business in any of these industries? If so, Mandarin Chinese may be the best business language to learn.
2. Spanish
There are over 30 countries in the world where Spanish is an official language. Spanish has quickly grown into the second most spoken language in North America. But the language has a stronghold in Europe, as well.
Because the language is growing so fast, there will be a higher demand for mass media speakers. If you’re in communications or marketing, Spanish is a good language to know now and for the future.
Manufacturing industries are also on the rise throughout South America. If you’re involved in manufacturing, there are growing opportunities there.
It’s becoming one of the best languages for business in the United States, too. There will be more Spanish speakers in the US in the coming years. If you plan to do business in the US, it will be helpful to know.
3. Korean
China may be an economic powerhouse, but neighboring South Korea is a force in the region, as well.
South Korea is not only home to a booming automotive industry. There are a handful of South Korean companies who are huge in iron, steel, trading, and electronics. If you’re involved in any of these industries, Korean is one of the best languages to learn for business.
There’s also a strong demand for native English speakers to teach in South Korea. This is a viable route for many who want to live abroad. Knowing Korean before you start teaching is beneficial.
It’s also worth mentioning that Seoul is the high-tech capital of the world. If you’re into AI, high-tech, or software, there are many opportunities in Seoul.
4. Arabic
Arabic may be heavily concentrated in the Middle East. But there is an increasing number of native Arabic speakers in North America and Europe, as well.
The Middle East dominates the world’s oil and gas industries. If you’re involved with gas or oil, there are big business opportunities in the Middle East – and beyond.
It even helps to know Arabic in Europe, as well. More Arabic speakers are working in manufacturing and technology there. There are even industries popping up in North Africa where Arabic is also common.
5. German
What are the most useful languages for business in Europe?
Europe is an interesting case. There are all types of languages spoken within close proximity to one another. But if there’s one European language that’s the most useful, German dominates.
Not only is German spoken by millions of people throughout the world. Germany leads the European economy and is a big contender in the world economy, as well.
Germany has long been a powerhouse in the automotive and machinery industries. But Germany is also influential in the banking, medical, and environmental technology sectors.
You don’t have to do business exclusively in Germany, either. The language is common in Austria, Switzerland, and Liechtenstein. It’s common throughout Scandinavia, Belgium, and central and eastern Europe, as well.
6. French
German may be one of the most widely spoken European languages. But French doesn’t trail far behind.
France is a powerhouse when it comes to the aircraft and automobile industries. The country is also known for producing some of the world’s finest wine and cheese.
You don’t have to stay in France to do business, either. There are millions of French speakers throughout Europe, North America, Asia, and Africa.
With so many speakers all over the world, there are various dialects. There are even up to 12 different ways to say goodbye in French.
You can learn more here about these differences. That way, you understand the proper way to bid farewell to business partners and clients.
7. Japanese
What are some other useful languages for business in Asia?
Japan is not only a powerful force in the world economy. Its economy is also one of the most diverse.
Japanese is a great language to know if you’re involved in agriculture. Not only is Japan the world’s biggest producer of rice. Japan also mass produces potatoes, tea, soy, and fruit.
Like South Korea and China, Japan is a big manufacturing country. Its manufacturing influence ranges from automobiles to electronics. Japan is widely known for its fishing industry, as well.
8. Hebrew
Israel may be a small country with only a few million speakers worldwide. But Israel is a growing force in the world economy for a number of reasons.
Seoul may be the high-tech capital of the world, but Tel Aviv gives it a run for its money. Not only are a number of major software companies headquartered in Tel Aviv. Tel Aviv is home to dozens of bustling startup companies, as well.
Israel is also powerful in military defense and aerospace technology. The country has strong medical equipment and pharmaceutical industries, as well.
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