Professional Benefits of Knowing a Second Language

Last updated March 2, 2026

In this article

• More job opportunities
• Build relationships and expand your network
• Highlight your language skills on your resume and in interviews
• Start learning! 
• How knowing a second language helps us at Get Schooled

In a multicultural and interconnected world, knowing a second language can not only improve your brain health but also open you up to professional opportunities! Whether you already know more than one language or are interested in learning a new one, read more about the professional benefits of knowing a second language–including experiences from the Get Schooled team! 

More job opportunities

Knowing a second language is highly beneficial (and in some cases, necessary) in many career paths and professions, including journalism, teaching, law, interpretation and translation, flight attending, and more. Additionally, with many companies expanding globally, there will always be opportunities for candidates who can communicate in different languages. When applying for jobs, having a second language listed on your resume can give you a competitive edge and help you stand out from other applicants. This skill can even open more opportunities for higher-paying jobs! 

Build relationships and expand your network

Speaking more than one language can help you make meaningful connections on the job and in your professional network. Talking with your colleagues or customers in their native language can allow you to build trust and have conversations without losing important meaning. This can also help you broaden your perspectives, learn about other cultures, and embrace new ideas.

Highlight your language skills on your resume and in interviews

If you know a second language, make sure employers can easily see it! Include a “Skills” section on your resume and clearly list the language(s) you speak. It’s also important to describe your proficiency level honestly. For example, you might write “Conversational Spanish,” “Fluent in French,” or “Professional working proficiency in Mandarin.” During an interview, be prepared to talk about how you’ve used your language skills in school, work, or volunteer settings. In some cases, an employer may even ask you to demonstrate your skills in a brief conversation. Being confident and clear about your abilities can help you stand out as a strong candidate. You can even practice your interview skills in a different language using Get Schooled’s Interview Coach. 

Start learning! 

Ready to learn a new language? Sign up for one of the free resources below!

• Duolingo
• Rosetta Stone
• Memrise

As you gain confidence, look for opportunities to practice with native speakers. This could mean joining a language exchange group, participating in an online conversation forum, or simply speaking with friends, classmates, or coworkers who are fluent. Real-life practice can help you improve faster and feel more comfortable using the language in professional settings.

You can also check out free or affordable classes at your local community college, library, or community center. Many offer beginner-friendly courses that provide structured learning and support from an instructor. No matter how you choose to start, taking that first step can open the door to new personal and professional opportunities.

How knowing a second language helps us at Get Schooled

Learn from members of the Get Schooled team about how knowing a second language has helped them in their careers.

Eric, Senior Program Manager – College & First Jobs Advising

Languages known: Spanish and English

“Being bilingual has helped me in many instances in my career in higher education. Working in spaces that supported predominantly first-generation students of color, I have had the ability to communicate with Spanish-speaking students and families about the college-going process in a language accessible to them. I’ve seen firsthand the relief in a parent’s eyes when someone can speak to them about their student’s new experience that can be very unfamiliar to them.”

Lisa, Director of Operations

Languages known: English and French

“Having knowledge of a second language has helped with my writing. Understanding sentence structure in another language improved my writing in English. It was also super fun to see the Latin roots in words across many languages. Big bonus, Spanish and Italian are easier for me to learn because of my knowledge of French.”

Do you have any questions about jobs? Connect with a Get Schooled Advisor.

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