With the employment market remaining fiercely competitive, new research suggests that learning English or a second language could become a deal-breaker when landing a job in the global marketplace, according to a press release by English language training company, TalktoCanada. Research into employment statistics has consistently shown that proficiency in a foreign language brings clear advantages in terms of employability and compensation.

One survey cited, conducted by specialist language recruiter Euro London Appointments, suggested that language skills significantly improved chances of landing a job and commanding better pay grades. Out of 228 employers surveyed, 86% felt that languages were an important skill set. Only 27% of businesses say they have no need for foreign language skills.

"Employers are increasingly looking for people with the ability to speak a second language such as English, particularly conversational language skills which help build relationships with existing partners and to make contacts and networks in new markets," says Marc Anderson, managing director of TalktoCanada. Jobseekers who are able to speak another language have a higher chance of finding work and at higher pay grades.

The ability to speak sufficient English to carry on a conversation or network is particularly important in sectors such as manufacturing and banking, finance, and insurance, reflecting the global environment they operate in. The greatest single demand for English speaking skills is for building relationships across continents, Anderson concluded.