How Speaking English Can Make You Rich

While learning English often costs money (courses, textbooks, audio tapes, trips abroad…) experts around the world agree that the money you spend learning English may be one of the best investments that you can make.

In almost every country and in every part of the economy, good English skills are one of the best ways to get a job. English not only helps you land a job, but is often essential if you want to move up the corporate ladder (the structure of power that’s common in large companies). Employees with good English usually can expect to make 25-35% more money than those without, so you’ll recover your investment very quickly!

Multinational firms are increasingly using English as their common language – and not only companies based in English-speaking countries. Many European and Asian companies have also adopted English as their working language for their international operations. This works to your advantage as you learn English, since fluency in just one language gives you access to companies around the world!

Not only is English a necessary skill for working in most global companies, but knowing the language can often help you find the job you’re looking for. Many job ads and recruitment websites are in English, and good oral English is great for networking and job interviews. Many of the world’s top business newspapers are in English, so being able to read papers like the Financial Times or the Wall Street Journal gives you the most up to date information on new opportunities.

Even if you’re working for a company that does most of its business domestically, you never know when English might become necessary, especially as the global economy continues to grow. Many companies that have been locally-oriented for decades, have recently become major global players. English speaking employees in these companies are usually able to advance quickly in their new international divisions. On the other hand, your company may end up being bought by a foreign firm, and they’ll definitely be looking for English speakers they can work with.

Even if most people in your firm don’t speak English, being the resident “English expert” means you’ll be well placed for any new opportunities, whether working with foreign clients or going abroad. So no matter where you are or what stage you’re at in your career, English can help get you to the top!

Ready to test your English? Find out your level for free at EF English Live with our online test, and begin your English journey today.