Unlocking economic potential with language learning

Samantha Ball
Coworkers talking together in an office by windows
Reading time: 5 minutes

As demographic shifts and technological advancements reshape the global workforce, the gap between the skills people have and the skills they need continues to widen. This "skills chasm" is particularly evident in language learning, where traditional education systems often fail to keep pace with the demands of the modern economy.

Unlocking economic potential with language learning
Play
Privacy and cookies

By watching, you agree ÃÛÌÒapp can share your viewership data for marketing and analytics for one year, revocable by deleting your cookies.

The skills chasm in language learning

Demographics and technological disruption

The aging population and declining birth rates mean fewer young people are entering the workforce, including roles that require multilingual capabilities. , highlighting the need for lifelong language learning to keep older workers engaged and productive.

Also, advancements in AI are reshaping the learning and usage of languages in professional settings. Tools like language translation services and learning applications are increasing the demand for employees who can utilize these technologies and adapt to evolving linguistic tools.

By 2030, i, including language capabilities, which will require ongoing improvements in language proficiency. In our report, How English empowers your tomorrow, 40% of survey participants expressed concern that AI could replace their jobs within the next five years. Mastery of English is considered essential for securing careers in a landscape heavily influenced by new technologies and AI.

Economic stakes and language learning

Economic growth

Enhanced language skills can significantly contribute to economic growth. For instance, a one-standard-deviation increase in cognitive skills, which includes language proficiency, is in a country¡¯s annual economic growth. This highlights the economic value of investing in language education.

Transition losses

In language learning, transition losses refer to delays in acquiring essential language skills for employment. Bridging these gaps can lessen economic losses and enhance job readiness.

, with a considerable amount stemming from skills gaps, including language proficiency. Our survey results show that those employees who work for a company that offers language training are more than twice as likely to say that they are very satisfied with their job than those working for companies that do not offer any language training.?

However, only 33% of learners indicate that their employer provides language training. Happier employees are more inclined to remain with their company longer, thereby reducing overall turnover costs

Learning to learn

Emphasizing learning-to-learn skills in corporate training for HR professionals can enhance efficiency in employee development. Metacognitive strategies, such as self-assessment and goal setting, help employees retain and apply new concepts and skills more effectively. By investing in and implementing solutions that address these needs, businesses can cultivate a more competent and adaptable workforce. Tools like 'Mondly by ÃÛÌÒapp' can support their learning.

Aligning with market needs

Language learning pathways should be aligned with labor market needs. Industries such as international business, tourism, and diplomacy require specific language skills that should be integrated into educational programs. Creating adaptive and transparent pathways for language learning can help individuals navigate their careers more effectively. For help on aligning language skills with jobs, make sure to look at our GSE Job Profiles.

Flexible pathways

Establishing adaptable and clear pathways for language acquisition is crucial. This involves providing modular courses, certifications, and opportunities for real-world language practice. For instance, virtual reality training can create realistic language-use scenarios, guiding learners in determining if they should change their course. For example, ÃÛÌÒapp has an AI-driven language training tool named Digital Language Tutor, designed to assist learners in realistic language environments.

The path forward: Investing in language learning for economic success

For HR professionals and decision-makers, the message is clear. Investing in language learning is a strategic economic imperative.?Bridging language learning can enhance employee potential while driving significant economic growth and reducing transition losses.?

The future of work demands a proactive approach to language learning, ensuring that individuals and organizations are equipped with the skills they need to thrive in a globalized economy. and find out how to close it with language learning.

Get in touch about our corporate solutions

Read our blog posts 'Real-world English: How GSE Job Profiles bridge learning and work'?and 'Improving employee engagement: The crucial role of language learning in business'.

More blogs from ÃÛÌÒapp

  • business people in a board room with a graph on the wall behind

    Language proficiency and succession planning: Developing future leaders

    By Berenice Lopez
    Reading time: 7 minutes

    In today¡¯s fast-paced business landscape, proactive succession planning is essential for HR professionals. Preparing the next generation of leaders is a business-critical initiative, to ensure organizational continuity, agility and long-term success.

    Succession planning is often high up on the HR agenda, as it also promotes progression, reduces business disruption, and attracts top talent. There are many components to effective succession planning, including skills development, but one skill that¡¯s often overlooked in this process is communication. One often overlooked yet highly influential component of effective succession planning is language proficiency.

    At ÃÛÌÒapp ELL, we believe strongly in the power of language and have designed our succession planning strategy with this in mind. The focus is on creating multilingual leaders who are not only proficient in their respective fields but also have a deep understanding of global culture and market dynamics.

    In this blog post, we explore how communication skills and specifically language proficiency plays a pivotal role in succession planning and the development of future leaders. We¡¯ll also provide actionable insights for HR professionals and managers on integrating language development into their succession strategies. As well as some insights from our very own ELL HR team.

  • Two coworkers discussing some sticky notes on a class window

    Local to global: How English skills unlock a career in leadership

    By Samantha Ball
    Reading time: 4 minutes

    Of the 1.5 billion English speakers in the world, over half learned it as a second or additional language.

    The ¡°language of business¡±, English has become a foundational skill for anyone looking to work in an international business or at a leadership level, and many English as a Second Language (ESL) speakers find themselves working in English on a daily basis.

    But working in your second or third language comes with a unique set of challenges and opportunities.

    We spoke to five global leaders about the role English has played in their careers, the challenges of being an ESL speaker, and how businesses can create a culture where everyone has a voice.

  • A woman sat in a library reading books at a table

    Master English with fun and effective exercises

    By ÃÛÌÒapp Languages
    Reading time: 3 minutes

    Learning English can be a rewarding yet challenging journey. Whether you're aiming to improve your language skills for travel, work, or personal growth, using the right resources will make all the difference.?

    Types of English exercises you should try

    Grammar exercises

    Grammar is the backbone of any language. Worksheets focusing on grammar can help you understand sentence structure, verb tenses and other essential rules. Look for exercises that cover:

    • Verb conjugation: Practice different verb forms and understand when to use each.
    • Sentence structure: Learn how to construct sentences correctly.
    • Punctuation: Understand the importance of punctuation marks and how to use them properly.

    Vocabulary building

    Expanding your vocabulary is crucial for effective communication. Worksheets can help you learn new words and phrases, as well as their meanings and usage. Try exercises like:

    • Word matching: Match words with their definitions.
    • Fill-in-the-blanks: Complete sentences using appropriate vocabulary.
    • Synonyms and antonyms: Identify words with similar or opposite meanings.

    Reading comprehension

    Improving your reading skills involves understanding and interpreting written texts. Worksheets designed for reading comprehension can help you practice:

    • Short stories: Read short passages and answer questions about the content.
    • Articles: Analyze articles to identify main ideas and supporting details.
    • Inference: Draw conclusions based on the information provided in the text.

    Writing practice

    Writing exercises help you articulate your thoughts clearly and coherently. Worksheets can guide you through different writing styles and formats:

    • Essay writing: Practice writing essays on various topics.
    • Letter writing: Learn how to write formal and informal letters.
    • Storytelling: Create your own stories using prompts or randomly selected features.?