In a globalized world with business links spanning continents, language skills have never been more important than they are today. To be able to communicate efficiently, diplomatically, sensitively and confidently is key to businesses when working within their own international companies, or when liaising with others. Corporate language learning then, is key in the modern business world.
Implementing Corporate Language Learning and Why you Need It
So how do you go about integrating language learning with your business? We all know how pushed for time we can can be as it is, with demands coming from all directions and the need to keep up with/outrun our competitors. It may feel like implementing a corporate language learning programme would drain yet more time and become another thing on the ‘to do’ list. However, successful language learning does not have to be a drain, and you will reap the benefits.
With today’s technology it is possible for anyone to learn and practice a language by utilising digital technology. Voice recognition can assess their speaking, listening skills can be practiced with podcasts on the commute to work, vocabulary and grammar practice activities can be accessed through apps on smartphones, tablets or laptops. Corporate language learning does not have to eat into the daily timetable too much, and doesn’t necessarily need to be classroom based.
Having staff who are intelligent and knowledgeable in languages is a real asset. As an example, discussed recently by Tsedel Neeley in the Harvard Business Review, training your staff in languages and their importance is essential when expanding into new markets across the globe. Employees will need to be able to communicate with local providers, acquire new local talent and develop them into the staff you want while fitting in with the local culture. If the manager sent abroad to set up a new team only hires and develops the staff who speak the same language as him, he will not easily get a stronghold on the local market. A stronghold would require training and developing talent indigenous to the region, staff who can help your business put down roots and integrate better. If the manager you sent over to start this team communicates with them in their own language while instilling in them the values of your business, you’re onto a winner.
A successful corporate language learning strategy can help you cross borders and run your business interculturally. Who can argue against the logic?
You may also like: