Business is now a global occupation. Even local businesses can have customers in the far-flung reaches of the world thanks to the internet and social media.
And at this crucial point in history, organizations like the International Chamber of Commerce are right to use businesses to break down political barriers. After all, business is the real language of the world.
If you really want to improve your skills here are seven of the best languages for business that could open up new markets for you.
1. Spanish
History plays a big part in the reasons why a language has particular influence in the world today and Spanish is no exception. Thanks to Spain’s once huge colony, Spanish is used by most of South America an Central America.
These are all emerging markets, particularly for tourism, as the South American continent as a whole recovers from years of brutal civil war, dictatorship and foreign interference from the U.S. government.
And of course, Spanish is also used by Spain, an emerging market in the European Union, where property prices in warm climates are relatively low compared to the rest of Europe. Be sure to read our guide on how to invest in real estate wisely.
If you are thinking about learning Spanish you have plenty of options. Try Medita Spanish who can help you accomplish your goal.
2. Mandarin
There is no better time than now to attempt to learn the language of mainland China. As one of the biggest growing economies in the world, they are witnessing a revolution that is unheard of for a communist country.
Most global businesses have a hub in China and there are a growing number of millionaires and billionaires in the country who are always on the hunt for a good investment opportunity.
Despite recent dips in their economic performance, business is booming in China.
3. Cantonese
Many people would question why it is worth bothering to learn a local dialect of China but Cantonese is the main language spoken in Hong-Kong, a special administrative region of China that was once a British colony and China’s most prosperous city.
As part of the handover agreement, Hong-Kong has to abide by more liberal rules than the rest of the country and the communist influence cannot be felt as much. It is often said therefore that Hong Kong is where the East meets the West.
This is a place to do business if you are looking for a gateway into China or want all the benefits of an Asian powerhouse without the hassle of Chinese bureaucracy.
4. Arabic
The language of the Middle East, Morroco and, most importantly, the oil-rich Gulf states of Dubai, Qatar, and Bahrain.
This is where some of the richest people in the world live and make their money and where tax is very low.
It pays to learn Arabic to be able to do business with some of the wealthiest people in the world but be warned Arabic is one of the hardest languages to learn and you will need to devote some serious time and energy to be able to read and write it fluently.
5. Vietnamese
What is so special about a language that can only be used in one country, Vietnam? It’s the business opportunities that this vast emerging market offers. With Thailand to the West, Hong Kong and China to East and even Singapore just a short flight away, Vietnam is in a prime location to be the next big business venture.
And with prices incredibly cheap and Vietnam’s infrastructure improving year-on-year, now is the time to learn Vietnamese to get your share of the spoils. Say xin chào to some of the most friendly people in the world.
6. German
Germany is the industrial hub of Europe. Known for its impeccable business ethics, Germany industry is often said to be reliable, efficient and always on time.
Learning German can be of immense help to do business there, though it is perhaps not as essential as in other countries.
German would be particularly helpful if you are thinking of starting or expanding your business to include cars or the manufacturing of consumer goods.
7. Sign Languages
When people talk about languages they often only think of spoken ones but sign languages are a very important language for a business to have. Why?
Because it shows your business cares about inclusivity and helping to ensure those with hearing difficulties are still able to access business conference calls and attend meetings.
There are different sign languages for each country but learning the sign languages of the previously mentioned most important languages for business is the obvious first step.
If you run a business with many employers then you could ask those already fluent in other languages to also the sign language of their respective countries.
The Best Languages for Business Open Up A Wealth of Opportunities
Learning another language is a joyous process. It allows you to interact with people from another culture and learn about the world from a different perspective.
But learning some of the best languages for business can be an even more rewarding process. It means that you are able to make money and opportunities for yourself that you might not be able to access as easily back home.
But it also allows you to help others. With the language barrier gone, thanks to you taking the time to learn the language, people from poorer countries can see their business ideas flourish. Their standard of living could soon take off as well.
If you’re interested in other aspects of business be sure to click here to read other articles from our finance and insurance section.
