The core Comtec team speak over 10 languages between us, and that doesn’t include the 200+ languages our global team of linguists are fluent in. As you would expect from a translation service provider, we’re all passionate about languages, and many of us are currently learning a new language too.
It seems that we might be an exception to the rule because in English speaking counties, like the UK, learning a new language is not such a popular pastime. As English has increasingly become the world’s universal language, people see less reason to learn a foreign language. Whereas in other countries like China, learning English is a priority.
But as the TED Talk below with linguist John McWhorter explores, learning a new language is a life-enhancing experience. While you can get by with English in many countries, you’re missing out.
Press play to find out why!
Learning a new language will blow your mind!
We agree with John, learning a new language will certainly blow your mind. Here’s a quick reminder of why you should learn a foreign language:
- It’s a ticket into a different culture: speaking a language, or understanding it, enables you to fully participate in the culture of the people that speak it.
- Health benefits: speaking two languages or more reduces your chances of developing dementia (and makes you a better multi-tasker.)
- They’re fun: that’s why the Comtec team studied languages and translation, we love the experience of speaking a different language and wrapping our tongues around different words and sentences.
- It’s never been easier: digital learning courses and online apps have made learning a language highly accessible and improved language learning dramatically.
We can add to this list of reasons and say that if you work for an organisation that’s operating in overseas markets, learning the local language will really help you engage and communicate with customers, business associates and employees. You don’t have to be fluent but having a few useful phrases and good cultural awareness will build trust and break down barriers. We think you’ll enjoy it too. Mind blown!