Learning new languages helps students maximise their career opportunities. Here’s why language learning is so enriching in management school and beyond.
In an increasingly globalised world, possessing strong language skills is a defining trait for young leaders. While advancements in translation technology have made it easier than ever to communicate across borders, the ability to speak multiple languages remains a critical asset for those who aspire to lead with cultural understanding and effectiveness.
The Bachelor in Management (BSc) programme at ESCP recognises the value of multilingual proficiency and cultural literacy. By integrating language learning into the curriculum, it prepares students to succeed in a competitive international landscape.
The Role of Language in Leadership
In today’s interconnected world, effective leaders must exhibit more than just communication skills; they need cultural awareness and empathy to build trust within diverse teams. Learning languages facilitates understanding of different cultures, enabling leaders to adapt their approaches and foster meaningful connections. This cultural competence not only enhances team dynamics but also improves problem-solving and decision-making in international business.
Moreover, language proficiency helps leaders navigate complex global negotiations. In fact, bilingual leaders are better positioned to manage cross-border collaborations and avoid misunderstandings that might arise from cultural nuances or language barriers.
Enhancing the Management School Experience
Recognizing the undeniable importance of multilingual skills for future leaders, ESCP purposefully enriches the academic experience of Bachelor in Management (BSc) students, equipping them with the tools necessary to navigate any conversation with confidence, anywhere in the world.
The ESCP Bachelor programme provides a unique opportunity for students to learn or improve additional languages during their studies. Depending on their campus, students can take classes in French and Spanish, while the core curriculum remains English-taught. Furthermore, each campus also offers language courses to help students learn the language of the host country, fostering deeper cultural integration and enhancing their global competencies. Additionally, students have the opportunity to study Chinese, which is available on select campuses. This approach ensures that language acquisition becomes a natural and integrated part of their education.
Language proficiency allows students to engage deeply with diverse academic resources, consulting materials in multiple languages and expanding their global understanding of management concepts. Furthermore, language classes often promote collaboration, with students practising their skills together and bonding over shared learning experiences.
The value of this opportunity extends beyond improving one’s standing in the global job market. Recent research highlights the cognitive benefits of multilingualism, particularly its positive impact on executive functions such as cognitive flexibility, memory, and problem-solving”crucial attributes for effective leadership. A 2023 study published on ResearchGate found that bilingualism and multilingualism significantly enhance these cognitive functions, as well as creativity and social cognition.
The Career Advantage of Multilingualism
Multilingual graduates from management programmes are highly sought after in the job market. According to a report by the Confederation of British Industry, 72% of employers value foreign language skills in new hires. Furthermore, The European Commission found that 40% of recruiters consider language proficiency a key factor in graduate recruitment, especially for roles in global companies.
Bilingual and multilingual professionals are not only more likely to secure their first job but also enjoy better career progression. Speaking multiple languages enables them to build broader networks, manage international teams effectively, and access diverse markets. This makes them indispensable in organisations operating across borders.
A Gateway to Cultural Understanding
Beyond professional benefits, language learning fosters cultural appreciation. It is not just about acquiring vocabulary or grammar; it’s a gateway to understanding how people from different backgrounds think, work, and live. Students in the Bachelor in Management (BSc) programme find that these insights make them more adaptable and empathetic ”“ traits that are crucial for leadership in today’s interconnected world.
While translation technology offers convenience, it cannot replicate the depth of understanding and cultural competence gained through learning a new language. For aspiring leaders, multilingualism is a bridge to better relationships, enriched academic and social experiences, and a competitive edge in the global job market.
At ESCP, the Bachelor in Management (BSc) programme integrates language learning into its core structure, preparing students to thrive in international settings. By embracing languages, future leaders cultivate the skills and perspectives needed to succeed in a dynamic and multicultural business environment.
