The Career Connection—Foreign Languages as a Career Asset: The Importance of Foreign Language Knowledge and Intercultural Competence

Abstract

While our national and economic security are critical to all citizens, our individual careers are also important to us individually. Foreign language skills can be a considerable career asset, providing the professional edge in a broad spectrum of careers. In addition to this ongoing public conversation about the importance of foreign language skills for our national and economic security, the importance of foreign language skills for individual careers cannot be overstated. Foreign language skills open the door to a wide range of career and employment opportunities, from language services and education, to the government, military, business, and the private sector. Careers in the export sector and within foreign-owned companies operating within the U.S. are also part of the broader employment picture that needs to be considered.