Brexit Makes Business German Critical

The case for elevating language learning in the workplace

English is no longer the business language of Europe. Expatriate workers are reporting a sea of change in its use and international language schools operating within mainland Europe are seeing an 80% increase in the demand for Business German.

But Britain has been significantly behind the language curve for some time and losing out because of it. Before Brexit came along, poor modern language skills were already costing the British economy £74bn per annum in lost opportunities. That is £2,700 per annum for every working person in the UK.

Whatever happens to Brexit, if Britain wants to trade with Europe it must rapidly and markedly improve its language skills: particularly in Business German.

Sadly, employers cannot turn to the education system for help. Modern languages are no longer seen as a priority in the school curriculum. Since 2002, there has been a 40% decline in the number of students taking A level German and only 5% of students leave school with a GCSE in more than one foreign language.

So how can British employers turn this situation around? How, somewhat against the odds, can they obtain the necessary language skills to compete in a post-Brexit Europe?

This Yorschool paper addresses that question. We’ve collated a number of Yorschool case studies as well as compelling statistics in order to investigate why English is no longer the business language of Europe. We also consider what can be done to ensure British businesses improve their position in the language landscape, especially with the onset of Brexit.

Packed full of practical advice for Business Leaders, download your copy now and continue the conversation online.