One of the most valuable investments companies can make in today\u2019s globalized economy is to improve their employees’ language skills in another language as well as their cultural awareness. There are a plethora of language training and development programs to choose from for businesses who are seeking to improve their workforce communication skills and effectively collaborate with diverse clients and partners. With so many options, how do you determine the right solution for your organization?<\/p>\n
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When identifying the right language training program for your company, consider each employee\u2019s language proficiency levels in speaking, reading, writing, and listening as well as their interest in improving their language skills. Then, establish your language learning goals in alignment with the company\u2019s goals and your employees\u2019 preferred learning style so you can determine the gaps, available resources, time required to accomplish your language learning goals and, budget.<\/p>\n
The right training should efficiently develop language skills and align with the goals and expectations of your organization. For example, group language classes<\/strong> are beneficial for employees who prefer interactive learning in a supportive environment, as they are usually taught in a classroom setting with an instructor. This method is more cost-effective and time efficient compared to one-one language instruction. It also provides the opportunity to practice speaking, listening, reading, and writing skills in a collaborative environment with professional guidance from the teacher.<\/p>\n On the other hand, one-on-one classes<\/strong> involve individualized instruction, and the language tutor can personalize the lessons according to the specific needs and goals of each employee. This type of training is flexible in terms of content and time, and it is the perfect fit for employees who have specific languages challenges that need to be addressed.<\/p>\n Now learners also have the opportunity to access lessons and resources outside of the workplace with innovations in technology, such as language apps, online courses, and other digital platforms. Remote online courses<\/strong> may include assessments and are often self-paced. Language immersion programs<\/strong> engage learners in the target language and culture through constant exposure and use of the language, whether conducted abroad or domestically. Additionally, blended learning programs<\/strong> can combine classroom-based instruction with online learning and immersive experiences, while using mobile apps for assessments through digital devices or computers.<\/p>\n As a company that has a stake in the economic future of the U.S., investing in youth programs that foster language learning might be a great way to make an impact in the community and in your business. Cultivating an interest in languages among youth that will be part of the workforce can be your company\u2019s contribution to leading in global markets. According to a study conducted for ACTFL, advocating for the establishment of language programs at an early age at the local, state, and national levels in the United States is fundamental as data reveal the link between language skills and economic competitiveness. The report\u2019s findings suggest a call to action across most industries and all major departments.<\/p>\n \u201cHaving workers who can speak and work in non-native tongues is important to organizations competing in an increasingly global economy, whether that involves attorneys dealing with international clients or a hotel\u2019s custodial staff interacting with guests,\u201d (Gurchiek). Ensuring that your workforce has the necessary language proficiency skills is vital for the success of your company, especially in meeting the growing demand for multilingual customer service. If employees lack the necessary language skills, companies may need to start providing language training.<\/p>\n Similarly, including language testing as part of your hiring process and assessing the language proficiency of current employees is a critical strategy to bridge any language skill gaps in your company. The experience and reliability of the language assessment provider will make a huge difference in terms of getting started on the right foot with growing your employees\u2019 language capabilities.<\/p>\n For over 30 years, Language Testing International (LTI)<\/a> has been the exclusive licensee of ACTFL assessments, providing valid and reliable measures of language performance and proficiency for individuals and organizations. LTI is the only company authorized to deliver official ACTFL assessments and administers research-based, valid, and reliable assessments for a wide range of academic and professional uses and needs.<\/p>\n To ensure your organization gets accurate results, contact<\/a> LTI today. LTI will provide your current and prospective employees with globally recognized language credentials in speaking, reading, writing, and listening and in over 120 languages through secure, remote, and convenient online assessments.<\/p>\n Sources: <\/strong><\/p>\n American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages (ACTFL) and the Lead with Languages Campaign commissioned Ipsos Public Affairs, with the support of Pearson LLC and Language Testing International. (2019). \u201cMaking Languages Our Business: Addressing Foreign Language Demand Among U.S. Employers.\u201d https:\/\/www.actfl.org\/uploads\/files\/general\/MakingLanguagesOurBusiness_FullReport.pdf<\/a><\/p>\nInvest in Language Education Early<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Ensure Minimum Language Proficiency of Your Workforce<\/strong><\/h3>\n