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Which (foreign) languages are in demand right now?
Note: this is part of our Professionals series where volunteers share questions they wish they saw on the platform
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3 answers
Alex ☺
Technical Coach
7
Answers
Houston, Texas
Updated
Alex’s Answer
Depends what sector you work for and what you want to do. For example the big Tech hardware R&D would be mostly in English no matter where you live. My current job requires Spanish and English. Counter intelligence jobs in the military might require different languages.
Angella chepchirchir
SEO, MARKETING, ANALYST , psychologist
76
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Nairobi, Nairobi County, Kenya
Updated
Angella’s Answer
The demand for foreign languages can vary depending on various factors such as geopolitical and economic trends, global business opportunities, migration patterns, and cultural exchange. Here are some foreign languages that are currently in demand or have been consistently sought after in recent years:
Mandarin Chinese: With China's growing influence in the global economy, Mandarin Chinese is highly sought after by businesses and individuals looking to engage with Chinese markets and establish partnerships with Chinese companies.
Spanish: As one of the most widely spoken languages globally, Spanish continues to be in high demand, especially in the United States and other countries with significant Hispanic populations. Spanish proficiency is valuable for communication, business, and cultural understanding.
Arabic: Arabic is in demand due to political, economic, and cultural factors in the Middle East and North Africa region. Proficiency in Arabic can be valuable for careers in diplomacy, international relations, business, and security.
German: Germany is a leading economic powerhouse in Europe, and German is sought after for business, engineering, and technology-related opportunities. It is also the most widely spoken native language in the European Union.
French: French is spoken by millions of people worldwide and is an official language in numerous international organizations. Proficiency in French can be advantageous for diplomacy, international relations, tourism, and cultural exchange.
Japanese: Japan is known for its technological advancements, automotive industry, and global business presence. Proficiency in Japanese can open up opportunities in industries such as technology, engineering, and tourism.
Russian: Russian remains an important language for business, cultural exchange, and political relations in Russia, Central Asia, and parts of Eastern Europe. Proficiency in Russian can be beneficial for careers in international business, diplomacy, and academia.
It's worth noting that the demand for languages can shift over time, influenced by various factors such as political and economic changes, technological advancements, and emerging markets. It's a good idea to consider your personal interests, career goals, and regional context when choosing a foreign language to learn or specialize in.
Mandarin Chinese: With China's growing influence in the global economy, Mandarin Chinese is highly sought after by businesses and individuals looking to engage with Chinese markets and establish partnerships with Chinese companies.
Spanish: As one of the most widely spoken languages globally, Spanish continues to be in high demand, especially in the United States and other countries with significant Hispanic populations. Spanish proficiency is valuable for communication, business, and cultural understanding.
Arabic: Arabic is in demand due to political, economic, and cultural factors in the Middle East and North Africa region. Proficiency in Arabic can be valuable for careers in diplomacy, international relations, business, and security.
German: Germany is a leading economic powerhouse in Europe, and German is sought after for business, engineering, and technology-related opportunities. It is also the most widely spoken native language in the European Union.
French: French is spoken by millions of people worldwide and is an official language in numerous international organizations. Proficiency in French can be advantageous for diplomacy, international relations, tourism, and cultural exchange.
Japanese: Japan is known for its technological advancements, automotive industry, and global business presence. Proficiency in Japanese can open up opportunities in industries such as technology, engineering, and tourism.
Russian: Russian remains an important language for business, cultural exchange, and political relations in Russia, Central Asia, and parts of Eastern Europe. Proficiency in Russian can be beneficial for careers in international business, diplomacy, and academia.
It's worth noting that the demand for languages can shift over time, influenced by various factors such as political and economic changes, technological advancements, and emerging markets. It's a good idea to consider your personal interests, career goals, and regional context when choosing a foreign language to learn or specialize in.
Paul Goetzinger MPA
Academic and Career Consultant and Freelance Writer
745
Answers
Seattle, Washington
Updated
Paul’s Answer
As far as demand and economic earnings, there seems to be two which are thr most in demand at this moment:
1. Arabic
This has increased substantially in the past 20 years.
2. Mandarin
Many countries are doing business over in China, so many people are learning this language.
1. Arabic
This has increased substantially in the past 20 years.
2. Mandarin
Many countries are doing business over in China, so many people are learning this language.