Rosetta Stone Inc.’s 2016 Business Impact Survey reveals the importance of language training for millennial employees. The results showed that over half of millennial respondents say language training has improved their career prospects and positively affects employer perception. In addition, 80 percent of millennials noted improved confidence as a result of language training.
Rosetta Stone surveyed more than 5,400 corporate users of its language-learning product, representing more than 900 companies across the globe.
“These results clearly indicate the importance of providing millennial employees with the tools they need to thrive as future global leaders,” said Judy Verses, president of Global Enterprise and Education at Rosetta Stone. “By 2025, Millennials will comprise 75 percent of the workforce. Their ability to grow and develop into global leaders capable of voicing their opinions in a variety of languages will make them more effective managers and far-thinking innovators.”
The study includes responses from Rosetta Stone clients in North America, Central America, South America, the Caribbean, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, Asia, Australia and New Zealand. American English (26 percent) was the most common language learned followed by Spanish (16 percent), British English (15 percent) and French (11 percent).
Of the millennial age group surveyed (2,400 respondents), those born between 1981 and 1997, key findings show that language skills training:
Prevents attrition: 59 percent report they are more likely to stay with their employer as a result of their company investing in them by providing lifelong language skills.
Contributes to career advancement: 64 percent of Millennials say they have improved career prospects thanks to their language training (vs. a global average of 57 percent).
Feeds a global mindset: 69 percent, or nearly 7 in 10 Millennials, report an expanded world view attributed to their language training. Since Millennials have a voracious appetite for connecting with others around the globe (50 percent seek international assignments during their career), developing language skills helps them set the table for their global future.
“Business leaders and HR departments may not understand the tremendous value-add language training can bring to their employee programs and they are missing out on a valuable opportunity for their businesses,” said Verses. “Employers must recognize the needs of today’s young workforce to retain top talent.”
