What sets you apart in the job market? 5 Reasons why you should improve your English language skills.

What sets you apart in the job market?

It is not solely your technical skills or your communication abilities, but a combination of both your expertise and your capacity to effectively convey your ideas to your target audience.

One of the most remarkable facets of humanity is our proficiency in utilizing language. Language isn't merely a collection of words and sounds; it serves as a means of interacting with one another, articulating our thoughts and emotions, and establishing connections with diverse cultures and individuals.

As Neil Thomson, a professor of communication, has stated: "Language is closely intertwined with power, shaping our understanding of life, the social environment, and even our own identities. Language serves as our window into the world and a toolkit we employ to navigate our lives." The ability to use language adeptly can significantly influence both our personal and professional achievements.

So, how does this connect to proficiency in the English language? Is it pertinent?

In a world where only the best candidates are recruited, effective English communication skills hold tremendous significance. Here's why:

#1 English is the third most spoken and widely taught language globally.

#2 It serves as a primary language for over 300 million people and a secondary language for more than 600 million individuals across 100 countries.

#3 English is considered the "global language" and the "lingua franca of the modern era." Approximately half of all employers offer better starting packages to candidates with strong English language skills. Proficiency in English can lead to faster career progression and higher salary increases.

#4 English language proficiency enhances an individual's ability to effectively communicate technical skills in the business world. Proficiency in English becomes a key differentiator in securing superior job opportunities compared to those with technical skills alone.

#5 English proficiency is essential for mastering 21st-century transferable skills such as teamwork, collaboration, negotiation abilities, and digital literacy. These skills are considered necessary for individuals seeking to become more attractive and valuable to employers in a modern, fast-evolving workplace.

In short, English's worldwide prominence elevates career prospects considerably. Employers favour candidates with robust English skills, facilitating swifter career progression and more substantial earnings. So, in today's interconnected world, questioning the relevance of good English communication skills for candidates and job seekers is obsolete.