Learn French for work and improve your career prospects

"I got the job I really wanted
because I learnt French"

Now that business and travel have become so much more global, a variety of languages are becoming more and more desirable in the workplace.

My three kids are all currently in the French school system and have been since the age of 3 years. Whether they appreciate the fact that they can speak 2 languages fluently, I am not sure. However what is sure is that in the future, they will definitely have a head start in certain jobs because of their language skills.

There is a shortage of language professionals in the U.S. diplomatic corps, military, and intelligence agencies. (nvtc.gov 2000 Cox Commission)

If you have chosen to learn French for work you are not alone. Plus you are in luck as more and more language schools/colleges are providing courses that are geared to enable you to learn French for work.

Often employers will fully fund or partially, your French language course. Ask them if you are not sure and explain the benefits to them. If you don't ask, you won't get. If they will pay, grab the opportunity and go for the best French language course that you can.

Have you chosen to learn French for work or maybe you are just thinking about it? Don't rush out to the nearest book shop and buy a book and maybe a CD and think that within one month you will be fluent � that will not happen.

How much time can I offer each week and when? � Day, evening, lunch, weekends�
How specific are my needs? Do I need a particular vocabulary or will I be in particular situations such as meetings, on the telephone, writing reports?
What level of French do I need? Is polite conversation enough?
Am I disciplined in learning or do I need some support and encouragement?
Do I learn best through reading, watching, listening or a mixture?
How much can I afford?
How quickly do I want to achieve?

If you need to learn French for work then you will probably need to learn it quickly and efficiently

You may well need to learn a specific type of vocabulary and so holiday French will not do.

* Self teaching methods
Can be good but you will need to be quite disciplined in following the course. Are you really going to feel self motivated after a long day at work, to get out your books or CD's when a leisurely dinner and a good film is waiting for you or you need to spend time with the family?

Reviews and recomendations of self teaching french methods

* French language course at a local language school in your hometown
Great idea if you want the support from a group and a tutor. However will the French be appropriate for your needs? If you are working towards a work exam then you might well have to learn a specific vocabulary. However some schools will run a business specific course which might suit your needs perfectly. You might well have to attend evening/weekend classes so check that they will fit in with your lifestyle and other commitments.

* One to One tuition.
This would be my ideal individual method if you want to learn French for work fast. One to one French tuition can be extremely effective and you will learn fast and the course can be tailored to your exact needs. Times and venue are usually flexible and often students will have the tuition in the work place such as during a lunch hour. The downside is the expense.

If your employer offers to pay, grab this opportunity if you can, especially if you are a beginner. There is no better way to learn then being right there in the thick of it where you will read, hear and see French being spoken every day and all day.

Help with choosing a French course in France

The best method for me is not necessarily the best method for you. If you need more guidance, look at the pros and cons of the individual French learning methods