Learn a language for work Blog

Why everyone should invest in language skills

13/7/2026

I recently read an article about the benefits of language. It was about language learning in Europe and the competitive advantage languages give. We think that all Europeans speak 2-3 languages so it was interesting to read that there is a push towards language learning there as well as in Australia. In 2016, as expected, English was perceived by Europeans to be by far the most useful language to know (68%). French (25%) and German (22%) follow next almost side by side, and Spanish ranks fourth with a 16% share. 1 in 10 Europeans do not see the benefits of knowing any language other than their mother tongue.

There is a push in Europe, that the five main languages under an EU program (called Erasmus) are English, French, German, Italian and Spanish. A business survey showed that 89% of clients stated that multilingual employees add value to the workforce and 88% stated that recruiting team members with language skills is important to their organisation. A multilingual ability is definitely a competitive edge in today’s world to not only improve international relationships but also to improve social interaction and encouraging connection between peers in our current multicultural world.

Some of the benefits of learning a language are listed below:
- It gives you a competitive edge;
- they are linked to improved intercultural skills and cultural tolerance;
- encourages social interaction;
- assists with improved concept formation, mental flexibility and the ability to multitask;
- Bilingualism can improve cognitive function;
- improves listening skills and problem-solving;

There are many benefits to learning a language. I’d love to hear your opinion. Do you agree? Should everyone learn at least one foreign language?

Joanne Ammerlaan is the National Manager for Vocational Language Learning Centre. She has been working with second language acquisition for over 35 years.

How cultural inclusivity can benefit your business

8/7/2026

Cultural inclusiveness refers to creating an environment where individuals from different cultural backgrounds feel welcomed, valued, and included. This approach has numerous positive outcomes for both individuals and society as a whole.

Cultural inclusivity promotes diversity and fosters a rich tapestry of ideas, perspectives, and experiences. When people from diverse backgrounds come together, they bring unique insights that can lead to creative problem-solving, innovation and the development of new ideas. This diversity of thought can be particularly beneficial in work environments, as it promotes teamwork, collaboration, and the ability to adapt to different situations.

Cultural inclusiveness encourages social cohesion and reduces discrimination and prejudice. By embracing people from all cultural backgrounds, it helps to break down barriers and diminish stereotypes, resulting in a more harmonious society. When individuals feel included and valued, they are more likely to contribute positively to their communities, leading to stronger social bonds and a sense of belonging. Moreover, cultural inclusiveness enhances personal growth and self awareness. When individuals interact with others from different cultures they gain a broader world view, develop empathy, and increase their understanding of different customs, beliefs and traditions. This not only promotes cultural exchange but also helps to challenge deeply ingrained biases and stereotypes.

Lastly, cultural inclusiveness can have economic benefits. By embracing cultural diversity, organisations and businesses can tap into a wider talent pool, accessing individuals with unique skills, experiences and perspectives. This can lead to increased creativity, productivity and innovations, ultimately contributing to economic growth.

Cultural inclusivity brings numerous positive impacts to individuals, businesses and society as a whole. It not only enhances diversity and fosters creativity but also promotes social cohesion, personal growth and economic prosperity. By valuing and including individuals from all cultural backgrounds, we can create a more inclusive and harmonious world,

The languages for people who don’t share a language

7/7/2026

In our globalised world, the need for effective communication between people of different linguistic backgrounds has never been more pronounced. Enter interlingual languages, a fascinating concept that seeks to bridge gaps and facilitate understanding among speakers of diverse languages. Interlingual languages, also known as interlanguages or lingua francas, are simplified and amalgamated languages that emerge as a means of communication between individuals who do not share a common native tongue. They act as intermediaries, facilitating basic interactions and transactions while transcending language barriers.

Historically, interlingual languages have played essential roles in trade, diplomacy, and cultural exchange. One of the most notable examples is "pidgin" languages, which evolved as simplified forms of communication between traders from different linguistic backgrounds. Over time, some pidgin languages developed into "creole" languages with more elaborate grammar and vocabulary, becoming fully functional means of communication for communities.

In contemporary times, English has emerged as the dominant interlingual language due to its widespread use in business, science, technology, and the internet. English proficiency has become a valuable skill, enabling individuals from diverse backgrounds to communicate and collaborate effectively on a global scale. Interlingual languages not only facilitate practical interactions but also foster a sense of unity and cultural appreciation. When individuals communicate in an interlingual language, they demonstrate a willingness to embrace linguistic diversity and work together to overcome communication barriers.

However, while interlingual languages are valuable tools for connecting people, they should not overshadow the preservation and celebration of individual cultures and languages. Instead, they should be seen as supplements that enable meaningful exchanges while maintaining the uniqueness of each linguistic heritage. Interlingual languages play an integral role in our interconnected world. By embracing and utilizing these linguistic bridges, we can enhance cross-cultural understanding, promote collaboration, and build a more inclusive global community. As we navigate an increasingly interconnected future, let us recognize the power of interlingual languages in enriching our lives and creating a harmonious world where communication knows no boundaries.

How upskilling your staff to learn a language can improve your bottom line.

22/6/2026

Upskilling staff to learn a language can directly improve your bottom line in several practical ways; mostly by increasing efficiency, expanding market reach, and strengthening client retention.
When staff can communicate in another language, you reduce friction in service delivery. Fewer misunderstandings mean fewer errors, less rework, and less time spent clarifying instructions or resolving avoidable issues. That efficiency gain quietly saves both time and payroll costs.
It also opens access to new customer segments. If your team can serve clients in their preferred language, you can confidently take on work you might otherwise decline or outsource. That can translate into additional revenue without needing to expand headcount.
There’s also a retention effect. Clients tend to stay longer and spend more when they feel understood and supported. A multilingual team improves the customer experience, which strengthens loyalty and reduces churn—one of the most expensive leaks in any business.
Internally, language learning often lifts staff capability more broadly. It tends to improve communication skills, attention to detail, and cultural awareness and sensitivity, which can improve collaboration and productivity across teams.
It can also obviously reduce reliance on external translators or intermediaries, which cuts ongoing operational costs.
Upskilling your staff to be bilingual can create better communication, broader reach, stronger retention, and lower overhead; all of which flow into improved profitability over time. Contact VLLC

Photo by Redd Francisco on Unsplash

Why Language Learning Is a Competitive Advantage in Business

11/5/2026

In today’s global economy, language learning is more than a personal achievement — it is a powerful business skill. Companies increasingly operate across borders, meaning employees who can communicate in multiple languages often have a clear advantage. Learning another language improves communication, but it also builds cultural awareness. Understanding how people speak, negotiate, and express ideas in different cultures helps businesses create stronger international relationships. A salesperson who can speak directly with overseas clients, for example, may build trust faster than someone relying entirely on translation tools.

Language learning also strengthens important workplace abilities such as problem-solving, adaptability, and listening skills. Studies have shown that bilingual professionals are often better at multitasking and thinking from different perspectives. These qualities are highly valuable in leadership and teamwork. For businesses, investing in language training can open new markets and improve customer service. Even basic language skills can make international customers feel respected and understood. In competitive industries, this small difference can influence major business decisions.
As technology connects companies worldwide, multilingual employees are becoming increasingly valuable. Language learning is no longer just an educational hobby — it is a strategic investment that can support growth, innovation, and long-term business success.
Photo by Aedrian Salazar on Unsplash

Can you claim your VLLC language course on your Tax?

4/5/2026

In Australia, the deductibility of language courses for tax purposes depends on whether the course is directly related to your current employment or if it maintains or improves the specific skills or knowledge required for your current role.
If the language course is directly relevant to your job, such as improving communication with clients or performing duties in another language that is necessary for your work, you may be able to claim it as a tax deduction. However, if the course is primarily for personal interest or to prepare for a future job, it typically does not qualify as a deductible expense.
To claim a deduction for a work-related course, you need to meet the following conditions:

The expense must be directly related to your current employment.
You must have paid for the expense yourself (it cannot be reimbursed by your employer).
You must have records to prove the expense, such as receipts or invoices.

It's important to note that the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) assesses each claim on a case-by-case basis, considering factors like the nature of the course and how closely it relates to your employment. Keeping detailed records and seeking advice from a tax professional can help ensure that you claim deductions correctly and within the guidelines set by the ATO.

How speaking a language can help you professionally and personally..

27/4/2026

How many of us envy those people who grew up or are growing up in bilingual or multilingual homes? Having the ability to switch and swap languages like changing channels on a TV makes some people green with envy or just smile at the sheer brilliance of it. Speaking a second, third, fourth or any number of other languages is to some people like some kind of magic and they wish they could do the same. For any number of reasons, people get the idea into their head that they will never speak another language, or believe that if they do, they will never use it. How wrong these people are, as with the current climate, millions of businesses are liaising with their overseas counterparts via Zoom.

Learning another language is more challenging for older people, it is a fact. Young developing brains soak up information and languages like a sponge and those who may seem like gifted children are merely using their brain as nature designed it. However, as an adult the brain still absorbs and retains information, and a language can be picked up with some ease albeit a little slower than a child. Don’t let age stop you from learning another language.

If you can learn a language, don’t then convince yourself that you will never use it. A second language is a wonderful thing to have. Speaking another language makes you more marketable as an asset in the career world and opens up new avenues of travel and adventure in your personal world. Knowing this should incentivise you to begin learning another language.

Language is still one of the most valuable assets a person can have. Pitching one accountant or salesman next to another, each with the same ability but with one being able to speak Italian for example, makes a difference. Job opportunities for people that speak another language increase and value to a prospective employee increases. Salaries are higher for roles where language or time in a foreign country is required and the extra income should be a wakeup call, especially in these tough times we face today. The business use of a language is undeniably an asset, and companies that have native language speakers gain respect faster and business deals are signed that bit easier. The simple fact that someone speaks the language lifts the levels of respect considerably and no matter what anyone says, respect is still and always will be why business is done between people.

However, it is not just business where language is an asset. Travel and vacations with a language become more exciting and more of an adventure. A language will take you off the beaten track and away from the flocks of sheep-like tourists. The real country can be visited, speaking French can take you to where the French enjoy their vacations and the same is true with any language in any country.

A language will allow you to not just communicate and get directions but to blend in when away on your travels. Strangers, made stranger by not speaking English, can become lifelong friends and life becomes a great deal richer and fuller just by having control of a language.

Learning a language is all part of the fun, and once learnt, using it is more exciting than many people will dare to imagine. Once you have mastered a language, those people you once envied or admired, will not be seen the same again, you will be part of a special and wonderful group of people who can converse beyond your mother tongue. Contact VLLC if you would like to increase your employability by learning a new language.

Fast track to a new language...

31/3/2026

You can't use body language over the telephone.... if you don't have the word, there is no communication. Between friends it may not matter, but when your business is on the line, you have to learn the language. English speaking Australians sometimes become complacent and have the attitude of "let the rest of the world learn English as a common language, we're OK!"

French is the official language of diplomacy and the Olympics, but English is more important in academic and business dealings, along with a choice of Asian languages, but which one? A past student of ours, Darren, decided on Japanese.... "languages are interesting", he says. "I have Japanese friends, so it took off from there. The course will be most useful for future employment in the area of tourism, hopefully in Japan." Once he had decided to learn Japanese, Darren did some research and spoke to a variety of language schools who taught Japanese. He chose VLLC because it offered an individualised, fast track method, particularly geared toward using the language within the vocational arena. He has also really enjoyed the course.

Students have to be excited about what they are going to do with their language. When you learn with a specific goal in mind it helps you to retain the language more easily and it also allows us to gear all your tutorials to your requirements, VLLC gets you thinking and communicating in your new language from day one rather than focusing on grammar, because that always involves English. The course can also be completed completely online! A whole new language can be learned through pictures and mimicking the native speaking instructors (tutor). Script and correct sentence construction will follow naturally from the conversation and from specialised writing classes.

VLLC has many corporate clients whose executives and tourism staff can quickly learn the language of overseas clients and business partners. It can also be instrumental in getting unemployed people back to work, or giving them an edge for career change. The big advantage of individual tuition is that VLLC can tailor a course to suit an individual's vocation.

Once people are serious about learning a language, they can look upon it as part of their professional training. The students motivation is a vital factor. Language learning is no longer intimidating but can open doors to new adventures.

Why Learning a Language can Supercharge your Career

23/3/2026

In today’s interconnected world, speaking more than one language is no longer just a “nice-to-have” skill, it’s a powerful asset that can open doors, accelerate your career growth, and give you a meaningful edge in a competitive job market.
Many companies operate across borders, and they actively seek employees who can communicate with international clients, partners, and teams. Being bilingual or multilingual instantly broadens the range of roles you can apply for; especially in industries like business, tourism, healthcare, diplomacy, and technology. Learning a language can expand your job opportunities. Even within domestic companies, language skills can set you apart from other candidates with similar qualifications. It signals adaptability, dedication, and global awareness, qualities employers value highly.

Language skills can directly impact your salary and increase your earning potential. Roles that require communication with international stakeholders or clients often come with higher pay. In some cases, employers offer bonuses or incentives for employees who can speak multiple languages. More importantly, language proficiency can position you for promotions, leadership roles, or overseas assignments; all of which contribute to long-term earning growth.

Learning a language improves your brain’s ability to multitask, solve problems, and think critically. It strengthens cognitive and communication skills, enhances memory and sharpens your ability to process information quickly. Professionally, it also makes you a better communicator, even in your native language. You become more aware of tone, clarity, and cultural nuance, which are essential skills in any workplace.

Language and culture go hand in hand and improves your cultural intelligence. When you learn a new language, you also gain insight into how people think, work, and interact in different parts of the world. This cultural awareness is invaluable in global business environments. It helps you build stronger relationships, avoid misunderstandings, and collaborate more effectively with diverse teams.

Learning a language can enable global mobility. If you’ve ever dreamed of working abroad, learning a language can make that goal far more achievable. Many international roles either require or strongly prefer candidates who can speak the local language. Even if relocation isn’t your goal, remote work opportunities with global companies are growing rapidly, and language skills can help you tap into that market. Learning a language is a challenge, and overcoming that challenge builds confidence. It pushes you out of your comfort zone and develops resilience; qualities that translate directly into professional success. It also demonstrates a growth mindset. Employers notice candidates who invest in themselves and continuously seek to improve.

Learning a language can future-proof your career. As automation and AI reshape the workforce, uniquely human skills such as communication, empathy, and cultural understanding are becoming more valuable as these are not replicable through AI. Language learning strengthens all of these. In a world where technical skills can quickly become outdated, the ability to connect across cultures as a personal skill remains timeless.

You don’t need to become fluent overnight. Start the process; contact VLLC and practice your new language with native speakers. Consistency matters more than speed. Choose a language that aligns with your career goals or interests. Whether it’s for business, travel, or personal growth, every step you take brings new opportunities.

Learning a new language is more than just adding a line to your resume; it’s an investment in your future. It enhances your professional value, broadens your horizons, and equips you with skills that will serve you for a lifetime. In a global economy, language is power. And the sooner you start, the greater the rewards.
Photo 1 Photo by Vitaly Gariev on Unsplash
Photo 2 Photo by Christina @ wocintechchat.com M on Unsplash

What employment opportunities exist when you can speak a European Language?

23/2/2026

The world is becoming more interconnected, and being bilingual or multilingual is an asset in many industries. If you can speak a European language, you have an advantage in the job market. Here are some employment opportunities where you can use a European language:

Translator or Interpreter: If you're fluent in a European language, you can work as a translator or interpreter. These roles involve converting written or spoken content from one language to another. As a translator, you will translate documents, such as legal contracts, websites, and marketing materials. As an interpreter, you will provide real-time translation for conversations, meetings, and events.
Customer Service Representative: Many companies with a global presence are looking for customer service representatives who can speak multiple languages, including European languages. As a customer service representative, you will be the first point of contact for customers, and you will help them resolve any issues they have with products or services.
Language Teacher: If you're passionate about a European language and enjoy teaching, you can become a language teacher. You can teach a European language as a foreign language in schools, language centers, or online. This is an excellent option if you have a teaching degree or a certification in language teaching.
Tour Guide: If you love to travel and enjoy sharing your knowledge about a European culture or city, becoming a tour guide could be an excellent opportunity. Many tour companies hire bilingual tour guides to lead tours for international travelers.
International Business: If you have a European language, you can work for companies with an international presence. You can work in various roles, such as sales, marketing, human resources, or management. This is an excellent option if you have a degree in business or a related field.

In conclusion, if you're fluent in a European language, there are plenty of employment opportunities available to you. Being bilingual or multilingual is a valuable skill that can help you stand out in the job market. Consider exploring these employment opportunities to find the one that is best suited to your skills and interests.