International Mother Language Day: the impact of languages in 10 sectors of the future

On International Mother Language Day, it's essential to celebrate the richness of our languages and recognize their crucial role in the professional world. In a globalized world, mastering foreign languages - in addition to one's mother tongue - is proving to be a strategic skill that opens up new perspectives and fosters innovation in many sectors.

By the way, did you know that language training can also have a direct impact on your pay? Find out why in our article 👉 Why language training boosts earnings.

In this article, discover how language skills play a decisive role in 10 sectors of the future, and why they have become a lever for success in the global economy.

1. International relations and diplomacy

Key figure:
According to a European Union study, 88% of European diplomats consider a command of foreign languages to be essential for conducting negotiations and understanding cultures.

Diplomacy relies on the ability to grasp linguistic and cultural nuances. Diplomats must communicate with precision and sensitivity to facilitate international exchanges and build solid relationships.

2. International trade and export

Key figure:
According to a study by Business Today, 45% of companies with a strong international presence consider foreign language skills to be a key factor in penetrating new markets.

A survey by Citi Private Bank reveals that 55% of executives consider language skills essential for developing new business partnerships.

The ability to negotiate and adapt one's discourse to cultural specificities enables companies to broaden their customer base and build trust with their foreign partners.

3. Tourism and hospitality

Key figure:
A study by the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) shows that 42% of tourism professionals say that language skills are crucial to improving the customer experience.

According to Skyscanner, 65% of travelers believe that speaking a foreign language enriches their travel experience.

Language skills enable tourism professionals to offer personalized, high-quality service, facilitating communication and guaranteeing the satisfaction of an international clientele.

4. Marketing and international communication

Key figure:
A report by the Commonwealth Secretariat reveals that multinational companies investing in multilingual marketing teams achieve a 30% increase in international sales.

Deloitte points out that multilingual companies gain between 20 and 30% in competitiveness on foreign markets.

Multilingual marketing makes it possible to reach a global audience by adapting advertising messages to cultural specificities, thus reinforcing the brand's international image.

5. Translation and interpreting

Key figure:
According to Statista, the global translation and interpreting market is set to exceed $50 billion by 2024, driven by growing demand in a variety of sectors.

A study by CSA Research reveals that 77% of international companies consider content translation to be crucial to their expansion.

Translation and interpreting services are essential to ensure accurate communications in sensitive fields such as legal, medical and technology.

6. Information technology (IT) and software development

Key figure:
The Globalization and Localization Association (GALA) reports that 74% of IT professionals believe that mastering languages makes it easier to work with international teams.

According to the Language Industry Association, IT companies that localize their products in several languages increase their chances of attracting new customers by 40%.

The translation and linguistic adaptation of technological products enable us to broaden our customer base and foster effective collaboration on a global scale.

7. Humanitarian aid and NGOs

Key figure:
According to a study by the Humanitarian Practice Network, 66% of aid workers believe that mastery of local languages is essential for field missions.

Oxfam reports that 59% of employees who speak several languages are able to build stronger partnerships to extend their humanitarian work.

Language skills enable aid workers to better understand the needs of local populations and collaborate effectively with partners in the field.

8. Finance and international banking

Key figure:
A study by The Economist Intelligence Unit shows that 70% of global bank executives consider language skills to be crucial when recruiting and managing international relations.

Accenture reveals that banks with multilingual teams perform 25% better in foreign markets.

Mastering languages makes it easier to negotiate and manage cross-border transactions, strengthening the international competitiveness of financial institutions.

9. Human resources and talent management

Key figure:
According to the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM), 64% of HR managers consider that foreign language skills significantly improve international recruitment.

Multilingual talents have more opportunities and are often better paid.
Are you self-employed or a freelancer? Here's how to finance your language training 👉 How to finance your training?.

LinkedIn shows that multilingual employees are 20% more likely to be promoted in multinational companies.

Language skills make it easier to manage multicultural teams and help identify and develop international talent.

10. Language education and teaching

Key figure:
The British Council reports that 90% of foreign language teachers enjoy a high placement rate in the international education sector.

Open Education Europa has noted a 35% increase in the online language course market, in response to the demand for distance learning.

The teaching of languages, both mother tongues and foreign languages, is a major asset today, meeting a growing demand in a competitive, international educational environment.

💡 Did you know?
‍Bilingualismalso has a positive impact on the brain and cognitive abilities. Find out what the research says 👉Theimpact of bilingualism on the brain.

On the occasion of International Mother Language Day, it's important to recognize that linguistic diversity, whether it concerns the mother tongue or foreign languages, is a pillar of personal and professional development.

In an ever-changing world, the ability to communicate effectively internationally is a strategic advantage in many sectors.

Whether negotiating agreements, expanding partnerships or enriching the customer experience, language skills are essential to driving growth and innovation.