Employers say that jobs requiring a 2nd or 3rd language are in greater demand

Employers say that jobs requiring a 2nd or 3rd language are in greater demand, and that prospective employees who possess knowledge of a 2nd or 3rd language have an edge even in jobs that do not directly require them.

As stated in a brochure put out by the Modern Language Association in New York City, 'Language Study in the Age of Globalization, The College-Level Experience':

Competition for the best jobs and for admission to top-rated graduate and professional schools is intense. Directly and indirectly the study of languages and their cultures and literatures will provide you with important job-related knowledge and skills that can give you a competitive edge. These include the ability to solve problems and to think analytically and creatively, to communicate effectively and confidently in writing and in person, and to act with versatility and flexibility. In business, any cross-cultural effort for cooperation, sales, or negotiation will benefit from your experience of other languages and their communities. To be an effective professional, such as a doctor, lawyer, educator, artist, or scientist, communicating and investigating new knowledge in other languages as well as in English are essential in the increasingly international workplace. Exposure to another culture through its language will position you more favorably for success in your career, whatever career you may choose.

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Source:
www.mla.org/adflcollege_broch.pdf