do i have to speak french to get work in montreal?

Answer 1

Yes you do. Its a double edge sword anywhere in Quebec. If your english you better speak both languages but if your french thats good enough.

Answer 2

It is preferable to know both languages ... regardless of business language and this and that, Quebec is a french speaking province, there are bound to be french clients, even in the most predominantly english-speaking areas/frequented stores. That said, it is very possible to get a job in Montreal without speaking french.

It all depends on the job. If you work downtown, you'll probably speak english more often, but you will get your fair share of french speaking people. The farther away (north and south) of Dowtown, French increases incredibly. Just a few blocks north of Dowtown, the most popular neighbourhoods (for students and young people, called Le Plateau, is pretty much run by the french language)
LIke i said, it all depends, where you work. But if you want to, you CAN get a job, but eventually you'll learn a few words, phrases in french to help the occasional french customer

Answer 3

To a degree. You need to speak enough French to get by. It really depends on the neighbourhood you're in (ie - West Island & Downtown it's not too big of a problem) In either case, if you plan on living here, you'll probably pick it up quite quickly simply by being immersed in it. If not, you've learned another language; which is always an amazing plus.

The most wonderful thing about this city is that most of the Francophone population is very sweet and understanding and are more than willing to speak in English to you IF YOU MAKE AN EFFORT IN FRENCH. They appreciate the effort. (usually, unless they're nationalists who say something along the lines of "On dirait qu'on est en Quebec" [One would think we were living in Quebec]... but don't let those jerks put you off.

Answer 4

I live in Montreal, I was born here and have lived here all my life. I don't speak french. I also have lots of friends who don't speak any french as well. We never have problems finding a job in english. My brother, who does not speak french either, worked in a bank for years. Knowing french would help you and probably open more job opportunities but it's not necessary. I and the people I know, get on just fine.

Answer 5

Technically, no ... Canada is a country with two official languages (English and French).

Practically, the answer is yes - because the majority of people you will be dealing with are French-speaking. You will need French reading, writing, and speaking at a level commensurate with your proposed line of work; more technical if you are in a technical position, less so if in a service position for example.

There are VERY few "English only" companies who have offices in Quebec; those that do are usually found in a very strict, highly technical field.

If you wish to pursue a position in the service industries, including banking, wait staff, or tourism ... or intend to work for a company with ties to either the provincial or federal governments, you WILL need to have both English and French proficiencies.

Answer 6

Quebec has only an official language : French.
To speak about French to Quebec is very strongly advised.

Answer 7

Not necessarily, depending on the job you want to do, but usually yes. If you're extremely well-qualified, they may figure you can pick up what French you need.
I've never gotten a job in which the interview wasn't in English. (Which is not to say I haven't failed any interviews in French.)

Answer 8

you don't need to, but it helps. anyways, if you do get a job there knowing english, you're sure to learn a little bit.

Answer 9

I think to work in Quebec you have to be blingual.

Answer 10

it depends on what type of work, but i think it's possible if you know just english...