Does knowing more languages assist in getting hired for a job?

Question

Why is it helpful to know more than one language for getting hired for a job and in your current job?

Answer 1

In general, it's only helpful when getting a new job, if it will assist you in dealing with people who speak that other language as an everyday part of the job.
But also, it shows that you are able to handle a position requiring bilingual skills. Ignorant and uneducated people usually only know one language at best (some don't even know one!), so it says something for your educational level.
As the world becomes more of a mixing pot of cultures though, I find it beneficial because I have been in situations where I could assist someone I didn't even know only by knowing another language. The first time this happened was when I was 18 yrs old (I'm now 45) and worked in a hotel. Since then, I have used a second language in other jobs where some workers didn't speak English and nobody else but me spoke their language. I have had the opportunity to help people on the street and in local businesses because they couldn't communicate with the employees or other pedestrians.
I think it's kind of neat to be the one to save the day while each of the other parties looks to you to be their translator/interpreter.

Answer 2

Because often companies deal with people who speak a language other than english. If perhaps you were to learn Arabic it could be very beneficial to being hired as an administrative assistant to an executive at Exxon who deals with those countries. Or if you work in a business in the south there are many hispanics who have immigrated.

It helps you get a job because few know more than one language and people who speak other languages are need to interpret for the other employees and help the customers.

Answer 3

It depends on the job. If you want a job in New York City, and would have to communicate with the general public, knowing more than one language would be a big help, since there are so many people there for whom English is not their primary language. There are many other parts of the country where being at least bi-lingual would be helpful because of the number of immigrants living there. If you want a job that involves travel to other countries, obviously knowing the languages of the countries you might travel to would be helpful. (See how easy this is? You could have thought this out yourself, no?)

Answer 4

Languages help to place you in the preference of the man that is interviewing you for a job.

Answer 5

Just think about it. Is it better to be fast or faster, is it better to be strong or stronger? The thing about languages is that knowing more than one expands your ability to adapt and interact with other people. For some jobs, it isn't necessary at all, but regardless of who or what you are, it definitely doesn't hurt.

Answer 6

this is highly recommend to have a second language. in an area where the majority of people don't speak english.some places of employment want to do business with these people and they want to be able to understand what they need. or a place like social services and schools would also appreciate someone with a second language.

Answer 7

That would depend on what the job is.

In my current job I basically have several languages that I can say "Can you speak English" in, as all the people I have to deal with abroad have English speakers working 24hours a day.

Answer 8

it's always seen as a greater asset to know more than one language in most job settings.

Depending on the job, you could also make more money if you know more than 1 language

Answer 9

Being bilingual in our society is a huge plus for potential employees. We have people who haven't learned English yet and who still need help and that's where a much needed bilingual employee comes in. Many customer service jobs now require it.

Answer 10

Being that the up and coming minorities are mainly spanish speakers i would say that learning spanish would be a hugh plus because there are many spanish-americans that do not speak english. if u look in the papers u'll see that they want spanish speakers only to apply or they'll say spanish speakers preferred.. So yes it would be helpful...