Boundaries and borders across the globe have arguably become ‘grey’ areas in recent years. Businesses are increasingly recognising that opportunities are available on a global scale as digitalisation makes it easer to expand worldwide. And with the Covid-19 pandemic pushing more firms to a more flexible way of work, global expansion is becoming an opportunity where before it may have been considered a risk.
However, in order to best tap into international markets, organisations need access to foreign language experts across a variety of sectors. For those employees with language skills, the opportunities are vast (even if current travel restrictions mean work may need to be carried out remotely for now).
But where is the language skills demand at the moment?
Countries leading the demand for language professionals
As Europe’s number one language recruitment job portal offering bilingual and multilingual roles across the EU and beyond, we have access to global language skills trends. We often see peaks and troughs of demand depending on the latest in-country economic news, but with our extensive network we’re able to identify which countries are seeing a higher demand for language skills.
According to our data, in September the top ten destinations advertising roles were:
For professionals in these destinations, now may be an opportune time to seek out a new role.
Top language skills demand
In terms of the specific spoken languages that are highly sought after at the moment, we know from experience that German, Dutch and Nordic speakers are currently in demand across Europe. In fact, that is one of the reasons why we are hosting an online recruitment event on 12th November that is specifically for those with these language abilities. The job fair will give attendees a chance to connect (virtually) with recruiters from global companies that are seeking their expert language skills now.
As of September, though, the top ten most in demand languages were:
Standing out from the crowd
While knowing what languages are in demand and where will certainly prove beneficial for those seeking new career opportunities, in order to be in for the best possible chance of securing your dream role it’s important to ensure you stand out from the crowd.
In a pandemic hit environment where virtual interviews are increasingly being used and competition for the best roles is rife, job seekers will likely need to invest a bit more in their application, CV and networking activity. Of course, knowing where to find the best jobs is key, but there are a number of steps that you can take to set yourself up for success.
For example, while in-person networking or attending physical job fairs might not be an option right now, there are online events that you can get involved in, so don’t give up on this entirely. And where there may be fewer opportunities to meet with recruiters and employers directly, your social media profiles can act as a great alternative.
When you’re applying for a role, make sure you’ve checked out the company’s social media accounts and follow them where relevant. Engage with the firm’s posts as well and keep the engagement going. The more you do to communicate and interact with the business, the greater the chances of staying front of mind with those making hiring decisions.
Following up with an interviewer has also never been more important. While it’s long been advisable to connect with those you speak to as part of your job hunt on social media or via email, post-interview engagement is now vital to stand out from the crowd.
This is particularly the case where you haven’t had a video call with the recruiter. People find it much easier to recall a person they’ve seen – I’m sure you’ve all heard the adage ‘putting a name to a face’, for example. Where you’ve not ‘seen’ the interviewer, connecting via social media immediately after a conversation helps put a face to the name.
For more ideas on how to stand out from the crowd in today’s economy, read our job interview tips in the age of social distancing.
Opportunities for the future
Demand for language skills will only continue to grow as more organisations recognise the benefits of a global offering. For bi-lingual experts, the future certainly looks full of opportunities, particularly in a post-pandemic world. Having your finger on the pulse of skills demand and knowing what languages are highly sought after and where can be hugely beneficial in informing when you should time your next job move.
Even if you’re not actively looking for a new role, staying ahead of the trends can help guide your career and will keep you up-to-date on what prospects are available across the globe.
