Ready to take on the challenge of learning a new language? There’s no shortage of options. Many learners look to classroom staples like French and Spanish, while others cast the net wider and target Mandarin and East Asian vernaculars. But, if you have your sights set on Europe, whether it’s for business or pleasure, German lessons are what you should be thinking about. Read on for five key reasons why learning German should be high on your to-do list.
1. It’s Widely Spoken in Europe
German is one of the most widely spoken languages globally, losing out on a place in the top ten. More than 76 million people use it as their first language in Germany itself.Globally, around 130 million people use German as their language of choice. In addition to its country of origin, Germany is the official language of Austria, Luxembourg, and Switzerland. Significant populations also speak it in other countries throughout Europe.
2. Employers Are Looking for Candidates That Speak It
The German economy has been thriving for decades. It’s ranked as the largest national economy in Europe, with a GDP totalling $4.3 trillion. Many international companies are based in Germany.. If your bilingual skills extend to fluency in German, a lucrative job market awaits you.
However, you don’t necessarily have to up sticks and relocate to tap into the benefits of this economic powerhouse. Many companies based in the United States are looking to expand their operations into Germany and beyond. Hiring managers for companies with an eye on expansion will prioritize candidates who can speak the local language fluently. Being able to speak German won’t just increase your odds of landing your next position. Languages are a sought-after skill that adds a significant premium to your take-home salary, even if you’re just starting.
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3. It’s Fairly Easy to Learn
Worried you don’t have the mindset for language learning? Think again. German might seem complicated to master with its lengthy words and accented vowels, but it originates from the same language family as English. In fact, out of all the main Indo-European languages, it’s the one that’s most closely aligned with English.
4. There’s a Treasure Trove of German Literature
Germany has long been considered a center of academic excellence. It’s also a cultural hub that has produced many world-renowned artists. In addition, the country ranks as one of the biggest literary publishers in the world after China and the United States. Yet to explore German literature? It’s not all folklore and fairytales. German writers like Thomas Mann, Robert Musil, and Christa Wolf are considered some of the finest contemporary novelists.
5. Makes Relocating Easier
If you’re thinking about relocating, Germany is one country worth considering. In addition to a stable economy, Germany offers excellent public services, with its education and healthcare sectors among the best in the world. Moreover, Berlin is a bustling cosmopolitan center that’s up there with the best of them, while cities like Hamburg consistently place highly in the Global Liveability Index.