Make Time for Language Learning and Kick-start you Career

Make Time for Language Learning and Kick-Start your Bilingual Career

If you’re already in work, finding the extra time to improve your language skills can be a big ask. It’s been widely reported just how beneficial second language fluency can be, but finding the time to boost your bilingualism while trying to earn a living elsewhere requires a little extra motivation.

There’s currently a shortage of the language skills that are necessary to succeed in international fields like business, security, finance and politics. However, those certainly aren’t the only opportunities that exist for bilingual speakers in the UK. Bilingualism is one of the most sought-after skills in almost every major industry, from healthcare and hospitality to marketing, customer services, engineering and more.

So, if you want to boost your career and your earning potential, it’s crucial you act quickly and make the time to improve your language skills whenever you can. Here are our top tips to get you bilingual job-ready while already in work…

  1. Study first thing in the morning and last thing at night

Little and often is the key to improving your language skills in the most efficient way. All it takes is 25-30 minutes per day, which means even the busiest workers can find time in their schedules, no matter how crazy they may be.

The most effective way to spend this time is to split it between first thing in the morning and last thing at night. Studying just before you go to sleep can not only enhance your slumber, but it also gives your brain a chance to interpret, consolidate and store new experiences and information as you sleep. By studying just before you sleep, you put your new language skills at the front of the consolidation queue.

Repetition, as you no doubt know, is one of the most important aspects of language acquisition. Taking ten minutes every morning to review the language lessons from the night before will refresh the vocabulary, phrases and structures you learnt and lock them away in your long-term memory.

2. Harnessing those hidden moments

Making the most of those otherwise meaningless scraps of time you waste throughout the day is a great way for busy professionals to boost their language skills. Even if it’s just five or ten minutes spent sitting on the train, waiting for a bus, jogging, driving, cooking or simply walking to the shops, this is the time you could easily spend brushing up on your skills.

Listening to audio recordings is one of the best ways to make the most of those hidden moments. Not only does it easily fit into a busy schedule, but it’s also an effective way to improve your skills.

3. Make the most of modern technology

When time is of the essence, technology is one of the most powerful weapons in a language learner’s armoury. Conversation exchange, an online tool that allows you to come together with native speakers from around the world, is a great way to share a mutually beneficial conversation. When you already speak a foreign language to a high level, this can give you the extra 5 or 10 percent you need.

4. Listen to music and watch foreign language films

When you’re already working, giving up your downtime is something you’ll be reluctant to do. The good news is that, in the modern world, the constant reinforcement you need is available with the click of a button, whether you head to YouTube to listen to foreign language tunes or take in the latest film. There are some fantastic foreign language films out there that will fine-tune your skills and introduce you to new accents, phrases, and grammar patterns, all while being entertained. What better way to boost your skills?

Now to find bilingual work

Once your second language skills are up to scratch, you’re ready to kick-start your bilingual career. Simply browse our current vacancies and apply online. Alternatively, send us your CV or give us a call on 02392 987 765 to discuss the bilingual role you’re looking for.