International Business Languages?

Question

I'm getting ready to start working on my BSBA majoring in International business and probably minoring in marketing. I speak German but not fluently anymore as I haven't really spoken it in 6 years or so (lived in Germany for 3 years and took 4 years in high school). I also took 5 years of Latin. I was thinking about taking Russian as my language for my degree as I have wanted to learn Russian for quite some time. I know that if I'm interested in a language it will easier to learn and probably a better experience. I'm just wondering if Russian is going to help me in international business, or am I just going to have to stuck it up and learn Mandarin or Japanese (also lived in japan for 3 years but, honestly did not try to pick the language up all... it just didn't interest me), or perhaps continue my German?

Answer 1

If you're willing and motivated to learn a new language then Russian or Mandarin would probably be your best bet. Most business is done in English but having some background in those languages would help in a bind (or at least give you a little insight as to what the others are saying among themselves when they think you don't understand).

German is a great language to know, but the level of English in Germany is relatively high compared to Russia and China, and the need for Russian is increasing even in Germany as more and more Russians move west.

If you're planning on doing business only in German-speaking countries then you should continue with your German. Otherwise, try to learn something new.

Answer 2

German, Russian and Japanese are def. the "business" languages, but I find many Japanese already speak fair English. I'd probably stick with the German.

Answer 3

German is good but considering how many things have "Made in China" on these days maybe Mandarin or Cantonese is not a terrible idea.