Benefits of knowing English as a second language

Learning English as a second language is a significant step to open many doors. Nowadays, this skill is very valuable for people’s professional and personal development. English is the official business language. Even if it is not easy to overcome language barriers many business people had to learn this second language to communicate more effectively with partners worldwide. Therefore, it influences the decision making process regarding collaborations contracts with international companies. As a result, it contributes to a business’s plan to go global.

Successful stories for businesses 

There are many successful business strategies focused on an English speaking workforce. One of them is about the Japanese company Rakuten. The CEO, Mikitani recognised the importance of English for successful collaborations between the internal and external company’ stakeholders. He actually implemented a policy for all the employees outlining that this has to be the official organisation’s language. Even if Rakuten’s CEO corporate strategy received criticism in the media it was an effective one. It contributed to the expansion plans the company was working on. Eventually, the Japanese company registered significant growth through the global language policy. Nokia, Heinkeken, Renault, SAP and Samsung also took into consideration the competitive edge English implies.

Personal and professional benefits 

The effects of learning English are very significant on people’s lives. According to an award-winning set and costume designer from Venezuela called Francisco Rodriguez-Weil this language opens horizons to a better communication with others. It fosters relationships, information access, and it helps to explore new places and cultures. Moreover, he actually admitted that the person who he is today is due to the English speaking ability. The English National Ballet’s artistic director sees this language essential for her personal and professional relationships. She argued that it allows communication and it helps with building a strong network. The Spanish UNICEF’s global director of communications, Paloma Escudero, mentioned that she has a successful professional career mostly due to her parents. They encouraged her to study English.

Bussiness people stories about learning English as their second language 

Many business people benefited from learning English as their second language. Andy Grove, Intel’s co-founder and former CEO, is originally from Hungary and he managed to move to the United States when he was 20 years old to complete his education. The Instagram co-founder called Mike Krieger born in Sao Paulo, Brazil and English was necessary for his career’ success. The same with Jerry Yang, Yahoo’s co-founder which is a Taiwanese native.

Conclusion

To sum it up, many business people benefited from learning English as their second language. It is actually an essential tool which contributes to individuals’ professional and personal development.