It doesn’t take a genius to figure out that learning a second language can earn you more money. But how valuable is it exactly? And why is being able to speak English the most sought-after quality in Chilean employees today?
Read on to find out why learning English is a worthwhile investment that could change your career:
Human Capital
When it comes to ‘soft’ skills in the workplace, there are few that will set you apart in the job market better than being bilingual. Forbes, among others, recognises the plethora of benefits that come with language skills, from demonstrating your ability to take on new ideas to improving your ability to multi-task, all of which help to increase your so-called ‘human capital’ in the eyes of employers.
But the value of foreign language speakers goes far deeper than that. Studies estimate that US businesses alone lose around USD$2 billion every year as a result of “misunderstandings” brought about by translation issues that arise out of multicultural situations.
Yes, you read that right: $2 billion every single year – and that figure will only rise as the international economy becomes ever more globalised. Just imagine how desperate these businesses are to have you, a native Spanish speaker, on board when dealing with Latin American companies in the future…
What could you earn?
Experts suggest that bilinguals earn 10-15% more than people who can only speak their native language, although some experts put the figure at nearer 30%, particularly for immigrants working in the USA.
All it takes is to learn English. Undoubtedly, English continues to be the most valuable language to learn in the world today. While Spanish speakers account for less than 7% of global GDP, English speakers make up over 30%. That’s why fluency in English is now a requirement for almost every top managerial position within Chilean companies: the opportunities available to bilingual speakers are vast.
Where and when can I start?
It’s never too late for you to start learning English. In fact, now is a better time than ever to begin your learning journey, with demand for bilingual employees rising every year across all sectors.
So, whether you’re aiming for a promotion or looking to start an entirely new career, learning English is a great place to start in order to help you stand out above other candidates. The best thing is that you can get going without even leaving the comfort of your own home!
At Fluent Language, we offer fully online English courses taught by native British and North American teachers, all of whom have plenty of experience in providing a quality remote learning experience. We can offer support in preparing you to take the TOEFL and IELTS exams, or tailor your classes to suit your personal objectives, whether they’re professionally motivated or not.
Sign up for our online English classes taught by our specialist native teachers today!
SOURCES:
Forbes: Do multilingual individuals earn more money?
Consumerism Commentary: 10 Ways to Boost Your Human Capital
(https://www.consumerismcommentary.com/10-ways-to-boost-your-human-capital/?WT.qs_osrc=FBS-CCY-5)
MarketWatch: Here’s how much learning a foreign language will boost your earning potential
(https://www.marketwatch.com/story/is-it-worth-it-to-learn-a-foreign-language-2016-03-10)
The Guardian: Learning a foreign language: Now you’re talking
(https://www.theguardian.com/money/2010/aug/28/learning-foreign-language-boost-career)
Lifehack: 5 Foreign Languages That Will Make You The Most Money
(https://www.lifehack.org/381547/5-foreign-languages-that-will-make-you-the-most-money)