Even in sectors where foreign languages may seem less relevant, they can make a significant contribution to a company's growth and success. Language learning in the workplace is therefore a key issue for HR teams.
However, despite the obvious benefits associated with multilingualism, many prejudices and myths continue to circulate. These myths sometimes hinder efforts to train employees in foreign languages.
In this article, we debunk five common misconceptions and show why they shouldn't be an obstacle to language learning in your company:
- Myth 1: Learning a language is only for young people..
- Myth 2: Learning a foreign language takes a lot of time.
- Myth 3: Learning a foreign language is difficult.
- Myth 4: You can only learn a language if you're good at it.
- Myth 5: You need to live in a foreign country to learn a language
Myth 1: Learning a language is only for young people.
It's common to think that children have an innate ability to learn foreign languages more quickly than adults. However, adults have many advantages when it comes to learning a new language.
First, adults have a solid understanding of their mother tongue, making it easier for them to grasp new linguistic concepts. Then, they can apply them in their new language.
Second, adults generally have greater maturity, better concentration and greater motivation to learn. Three elements that can be invaluable assets in the language learning process.
When dealing with an adult audience, however, it is essential to adapt the teaching methods used, rather than relying on the overly academic techniques used in secondary school.
Myth 2: Learning a foreign language takes a lot of time
HR and managers alike are often concerned that their employees will not be able to have enough time to learn a new language while fulfilling their professional commitments. However, learning a foreign language can be effective without requiring total immersion.
An intelligent approach is to:
- Focus on the level of language proficiency required to be effective in your job.
- Rather than aiming for total mastery of the language.
For example, an employee may need to communicate effectively with foreign customers or read business documents in a foreign language. By focusing on these specific skills, it is possible to learn enough to perform well in a short amount of time.
Nowadays, many digital tools are used alongside a course with an instructor to facilitate language learning. These resources allow learners to practice the language at their own pace, between lessons. These make learning much more flexible and accessible.
Myth 3: Learning a foreign language is difficult
This belief does not take into account the many modern methods and resources that make the language learning process easier than ever.
Language learning has evolved considerably over the years. Gone are the methods used at school! Corporate language courses are based on communicative approaches and oral comprehension to enable learners to make rapid progress. Adapting to the learner's learning preferences also makes it easier to memorise and speeds up the learning curve.
Secondly, motivation plays an essential role in language learning. Companies can encourage their employees by creating a working environment that is conducive to learning. For example, by providing opportunities to put their language skills into practice in the workplace.
Myth 4: You can only learn a language if you are good at it
Language learning is a skill that can be acquired and developed by anyone, whatever their initial level. In fact, determination, practice and the right methodology play a much more important role than innate talent.
It is up to the language trainer to adapt their teaching methods to enable the learner to progress. They will draw on an arsenal of tools such as:
- Audio, video and digital aids.
- Role-playing.
- Use of professional materials.
All of these will enable the learner to :
- Feel confident.
- Learn relevant vocabulary.
- Make rapid and natural progress.
Myth 5: You need to live in a foreign country to learn a language
Many people mistakenly believe that total immersion is the only way to learn a language effectively. While immersion can be useful, there are many other learning methods that can be just as effective, including in-company learning.
Individual courses, tailored to the needs of each learner and coupled with online resources, can all make a significant contribution to language learning without the need for total language immersion.
The idea that total immersion is the only way to master a foreign language is therefore a myth. Significant progress can be made through structured methods and regular practice, without having to leave home.
In summary
Language learning in the workplace:
- Is relevant for adults.
- Does not necessarily require a lot of time.
- Is not necessarily difficult.
Adults can learn a foreign language effectively at any age, using modern methods and focusing on the specific language skills they need for their work.
Companies that invest in language training for their employees reap a number of benefits, such as:
- A more diverse workforce.
- More competent teams.
- Teams being more open to foreign markets.
- Internal solutions to grow across different markets.
It's time to dispel the myths and recognise the importance of language learning in today's professional world.
The key to rapid language progress lies in adapting to the learner. The Speak'Pro method meets all these challenges. Find out more now.