The advantages of knowing a foreign language at an early age are widely known. Multilingual children are more creative, better problem solvers and more logical. It’s also simpler to pick up a new language earlier in life, as you won’t query grammar rules, you won’t develop as strong an accent, and it will seem fun, rather than a task. However, picking up another language later in life can still have many social and economic benefits. This article will highlight the benefits of learning a second language for jobs, vacations and intelligence.
The list of cognitive benefits of bilingualism is endless. The Baycrest Rotman Institute has found that linguists use a fewer number of brain resources to perform memory tasks. This helps to preserve brain health and safeguards against memory loss and cognitive decline. That’s why those who can speak two languages are less likely to develop dementia. The cognitive benefits of learning a second language also influence one’s native language proficiency. Learning another language helps you to develop writing, listening and speaking skills that are beneficial for both languages. Those who can speak many languages are also more analytical and have a better attention span, which helps both professional and personal lives.
The need for bilingual employees has doubled in the past five years, and consequently there are more economic benefits of learning a second language than ever. Multilingual employees are in demand because they have skills such as creativity and problem solving. Additionally, picking up a language demonstrates you can commit to developing another skill. Being multilingual also opens opportunities in new industries, such as travel, hospitality, interpretation and the military. There are also numerous benefits of learning a foreign language for business development, as bilinguals are able to interact with individuals across the world. Multilingual team members are also important for customer service. Sibur, for instance, is active in 80 countries, and so they need multilingual individuals to interact with international clients.
There are several benefits of learning a second language for travel. To learn another language, you will also have to learn about a different culture, making you increasingly empathetic and understanding of other nationalities. Linguists are also known to be stronger problem solvers, and consequently will be able to conquer travel challenges, such as getting lost or losing your passport. Being able to speak the language of the country you’re going to will also improve your safety. While you can use translation apps, like TripLingo, to communicate in a stressful scenario, being bilingual speeds up interaction. There are also social benefits of learning a second language while on holiday, because you will be able to talk to the locals, who can give you accommodation and restaurant recommendations. You could also save money, since you will be able to negotiate at markets and won’t need to use a tour guide.