The benefits of learning a second language are mounting as technological advances have shifted how our world provides services and conducts its business. Almost every industry has felt the impact as immigration and expansion has allowed individuals the freedom to experience new cultures through work and education. It is because of this multi-cultural interaction that bilingual ability has become essential to building a competitive resume and successful professional and personal life.
If you are looking to develop this essential ability, learning French is the perfect place to start. Learning French particularly has unique benefits. French is the second most used language on the Internet and the official language of several international organizations; including the International Olympic Committee as well as the United Nations. When learning French, you will receive the general benefits gained by learning a second language as well as benefits that may only be picked up by specifically learning French.
Some general benefits to learning a second language include:
- Communication. Communication improves when you learn a second language. Not only will you be able to speak to native French speakers when you travel, you can also converse with new people in your area, or who you encounter through your work environment. Many people prefer to speak their native language and greatly appreciate when others recognize the importance of their culture by taking the time to learn their language. French is no exception, and native French culture has been one recognized as greatly appreciating the use of their language by foreign persons.
- Career development. As mentioned before, career development is another reason why many choose to learn a second language. The ability to speak more than one language increases your marketability and is essential to building a competitive resume in the business world. Beyond “business”, many industries are experiencing global interaction, making bilingual ability a coveted trait in industries such as education, health care, insurance, as well as transportation.
- Social Interaction: Learning a new language allows you to develop a better understanding of the culture from which that language comes. Many languages are deeply set within the culture it comes from and French adheres to this principle. Culture is often heavily prized by individuals as a personal identity marker. Learning a second language can enable you to better understand other cultures and individuals, which in turn better equips you to interact with them on a personal or professional level.
- Personal Growth Learning a second language will enable you to learn more about your native language as well. When you learn French online with programs such as Rocket French, you learn more about English words that were derived from the French and also develop a better understanding of your native tongue. What many do not realize is that the English language has taken more words from French than any other. This will help increase your English vocabulary, which then can help improve your interaction within your professional and personal life.
- Child Growth The benefits of learning a second language, particularly French, can reach beyond your own personal and professional development. Teaching your child a second language has shown to help to increase their overall test scores and has been shown to do so in areas such as language arts, reading and math. Learning a second language has also been shown to help children improve in the areas of self-discipline, problem-solving and memory.
