Should I Study English? The Benefits of Being Bilingual
Last updated: 18th November 2024
Rhys Mackenzie
English and Business
Speaking a second language has several employment benefits. Communication in the workplace is essential, and more companies, especially those with international offices, are considering bilingualism a high priority when recruiting. Being bilingual means that there may be more job opportunities, depending on which language you speak.
As you prepare for future careers, it is important to consider whether English would benefit you in the workplace.
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There has been a lot of research conducted around the world which has shown that cross-border business communication is most often conducted in English. Many global companies have mandated English as their official corporate language. A few examples of these companies are:
- Airbus
- Daimler-Chrysler
- Fast Retailing
- Nokia
- Renault
- Samsung
- SAP
- Microsoft (Beijing offices)
More and more companies are looking for bilingual speakers as they move towards more globalised business operations. By knowing English, it is likely that you will be increasing your chances of getting a job in a multinational company.
English and Education
Across the globe, English has been the key to academic collaboration, through research activity, events and communications, both inside and between institutions themselves.
Thousands of schools and universities offer courses and programmes in English. If you speak English, then you are opening up lots of possibilities to suit you and your educational wants and needs which will of course help you in the future.
If you wish to study higher education in an English-lead course, then you will have to complete a test through the IELTS (The International English Language Testing System) to see if you are proficient enough to apply and take part in the course.
English and the Media
English is the language of the internet. With only the first few internet entries having been posted in English, by the mid 1990s this grew substantially to where an estimated 80% of the internet’s content was published in English.
Today, we see English not only on the internet, but dominating the news, television, music and so much more.
By studying English, you will learn about other cultures through learning about the media which they are surrounded by. Not only will you be learning a language which will benefit you in so many other ways, but by embarking on a language course, it will encourage you to learn about new cultures and help you to meet new friends. Few experiences will make you grow as a person more than learning the values, habits and way of life in a culture that is different from yours.
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About the author
Rhys Mackenzie is the Website Marketing Manager at Oxford Summer Courses. With extensive experience in SEO and digital content management, they are passionate about showcasing the best that Oxford has to offer. Their previous role at Experience Oxfordshire gave them a deep appreciation for the city's unique cultural and academic offerings. Learn more about Rhys here.
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Summary
English offers job prospects in business, education, and media. Bilingualism is valued by global companies. Academic collaboration and online content are dominated by English. Learn English for personal growth and career success.