The benefits of learning a foreign language at an early age are widely known. Multilingual youngsters are more imaginative, better problem solvers and more logical. It’s also more straightforward to learn a new language if you’re younger, as you won’t question grammar rules, you won’t have as strong an accent, and it will be enjoyable, instead of a task. Nonetheless, picking up a foreign language when you're older can still have multiple social and economic benefits. This article will outline the benefits of learning a second language for jobs, travel and brain power.
The list of cognitive benefits of bilingualism is endless. The Baycrest Rotman Institute has found that linguists use fewer brain resources to perform memory tasks. This assists in preserving brain health and defends against memory loss and cognitive decline. Therefore, people who can speak several languages are less likely to develop dementia. The cognitive benefits of learning a second language also influence people’s mother tongue proficiency. Learning another language helps you to improve speaking, listening and writing skills that are beneficial for both languages. Those who can speak many languages are also more analytical and have a better attention span, which enhances both personal and professional lives.
The demand for multilingual recruits has doubled across the past five years, which means there are more economic benefits of learning a second language than ever before. Multilingual people are sought after as they have skills such as problem solving and creativity. Additionally, picking up a language proves you’re able to commit to learning another skill. Being multilingual also opens up new industries, such as travel, hospitality, interpretation and the military. There are also many benefits of learning a foreign language for business development, as bilinguals can network with contacts around the world. Multilingual workers are also vital for customer service. Sibur, for example, sells to 80 countries, meaning they need multilingual staff members to communicate with international customers.
There are several benefits of learning a second language for travel. To learn another language, you will also need to learn about a different culture, making you more understanding and empathetic of other nationalities. Language learners are also known to be stronger problem solvers, and therefore will be able to overcome travel challenges, such as losing your passport or getting lost. Understanding the language of the country you’re going to will also boost your safety. Although you could use translation apps, such as TripLingo, to converse in a difficult situation, being multilingual speeds up interaction. There are also social benefits of learning a second language while away, as you will be able to talk to the natives, who can offer restaurant and accommodation recommendations. You could also save money, since you can bargain at markets and won’t need to hire a tour guide.