The pros of learning a foreign language at an early age are well known. Multilingual kids are more imaginative, stronger problem solvers and more analytical. It’s also simpler to pick up a new language if you’re younger, as you won’t question grammar rules, you won’t have as strong an accent, and it will seem enjoyable, rather than a chore. However, picking up another language as an adult can still have lots of economic and social advantages. This article will outline the benefits of learning a second language for jobs, travelling and brain power.
The need for bilingual staff members has doubled across the past five years, meaning there are more economic benefits of learning a second language than ever. Bilingual employees are in demand because they have abilities such as creativity and problem solving. Furthermore, picking up a language confirms you’re able to commit to developing another skill. Being bilingual also opens up new sectors, such as travel, hospitality, translation and the military. There are also multiple benefits of learning a foreign language for business development, as bilinguals are able to interact with contacts across the world. Bilingual staff members are also essential for customer service. Sibur, for example, sells to 80 countries, which means they seek bilingual workers to connect with international clients.
There are multiple benefits of learning a second language for travel. In order to learn another language, you will also have to learn about another culture, making you increasingly understanding and empathetic of different nationalities. Language learners are also well-known to be stronger problem solvers, and consequently will be able to tackle travel dilemmas, like losing your passport or getting lost. Being able to speak the language of the destination you’re visiting will also improve your safety. While you can use translation apps, like TripLingo, to communicate in a stressful situation, being bilingual speeds up interaction. There are also social benefits of learning a second language while away, because you will be able to talk to the natives, who can give you accommodation and restaurant advice. You could also save money, since you can bargain at markets and won’t need to hire a tour guide.
The list of cognitive benefits of bilingualism is endless. The Baycrest Rotman Institute has revealed that multilingual people use a fewer number of brain resources to complete memory tasks. This assists in preserving brain health and safeguards against cognitive decline and memory loss. Therefore, individuals who can speak more than one language are less likely to develop dementia. The cognitive benefits of learning a second language also influence people’s native language proficiency. Learning a new language helps you to pick up speaking, writing and listening skills that are beneficial for both languages. Individuals who are able to speak many languages are also more analytical and have a greater attention span, which improves both professional and personal lives.