Thinkstock
Image

Job-Sponsored Language Training Improves Confidence and Career Prospects for Millennials

May 26, 2016
Want to mentor future global business leaders? Teach your employees new languages.

Rosetta Stone Inc.’s 2016 Business Impact Survey reveals the importance of language training for millennial employees. The results showed that over half of millennial respondents say language training has improved their career prospects and positively affects employer perception. In addition, 80 percent of millennials noted improved confidence as a result of language training.

Rosetta Stone surveyed more than 5,400 corporate users of its language-learning product, representing more than 900 companies across the globe.

“These results clearly indicate the importance of providing millennial employees with the tools they need to thrive as future global leaders,” said Judy Verses, president of Global Enterprise and Education at Rosetta Stone. “By 2025, Millennials will comprise 75 percent of the workforce. Their ability to grow and develop into global leaders capable of voicing their opinions in a variety of languages will make them more effective managers and far-thinking innovators.”

The study includes responses from Rosetta Stone clients in North America, Central America, South America, the Caribbean, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, Asia, Australia and New Zealand. American English (26 percent) was the most common language learned followed by Spanish (16 percent), British English (15 percent) and French (11 percent).

Of the millennial age group surveyed (2,400 respondents), those born between 1981 and 1997, key findings show that language skills training:

Prevents attrition: 59 percent report they are more likely to stay with their employer as a result of their company investing in them by providing lifelong language skills.

Contributes to career advancement: 64 percent of Millennials say they have improved career prospects thanks to their language training (vs. a global average of 57 percent).

Feeds a global mindset: 69 percent, or nearly 7 in 10 Millennials, report an expanded world view attributed to their language training. Since Millennials have a voracious appetite for connecting with others around the globe (50 percent seek international assignments during their career), developing language skills helps them set the table for their global future.

“Business leaders and HR departments may not understand the tremendous value-add language training can bring to their employee programs and they are missing out on a valuable opportunity for their businesses,” said Verses. “Employers must recognize the needs of today’s young workforce to retain top talent.”

About the Author

Sandy Smith

Sandy Smith is the former content director of EHS Today, and is currently the EHSQ content & community lead at Intelex Technologies Inc. She has written about occupational safety and health and environmental issues since 1990.

Sponsored Recommendations

Navigating ESG Risk in Your Supply Chain

Sept. 26, 2024
Discover the role of ESG in supply chains, from reducing carbon footprints to complying with new regulations and enhancing long-term business value.

Best Practices for Managing Subcontractor Risk

Sept. 26, 2024
Discover how to effectively manage subcontractor risk with unified strategies, enhanced oversight, and clear communication for consistent safety and compliance.

Fitting in Fast: Making a Safe Workplace for New Hires

Sept. 12, 2024
Over a third of nonfatal injuries happen to workers who have been with their current employer for less than a year.

Top 10 Causes of Distracted Driving—and What They All Have in Common

Aug. 27, 2024
The results reveal the top ten causes of distracted driving, and make it clear that not all distractions are created equal.

Voice your opinion!

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of EHS Today, create an account today!