How is it useful to speak Chinese in the U.S?

Chinese languages, mostly Cantonese and Mandarin, are collectively the third most-spoken language in the United States and are mostly spoken within Chinese-American populations and by immigrants or the descendants of immigrants, especially in California and New York.  Over 2 million Americans speak varieties of Chinese, with Mandarin becoming increasingly common due to immigration from mainland China and to some extent Taiwan.

Although Chinese Americans grow up learning English, some teach their children Chinese for a variety of reasons including preservation of an ancient civilization, preservation of a unique identity, pride in their cultural ancestry, desire for easy communication with them and other relatives, and the perception that Chinese will be a useful language as China’s economic strength increases. Cantonese, historically the language of most Chinese immigrants, was the third most widely spoken non-English language in the United States in 2004. Many Chinese schools have been established to accomplish these goals. Most of them have classes only once a week on the weekends, however especially in the past there have been schools that met every day after normal school.

Becoming proficient in two or more languages is a skill that is appreciated on many different levels. Speaking in another language can give you a competitive advantage when you relocate to other countries in search of a better job. While choosing an extra language to learn, one should be aware of the benefits of learning the language.

1. Huge Career Opportunities

Be it aiming to become a language expert or seeking a career in management or technology, being able to converse in Chinese would give you a boost in your career. Most of the global companies have a huge demand for people who are fluent in Chinese, especially in the education, health and business sectors. Learning Mandarin Chinese in the U.S. would be your door to wonderful job opportunities in the future. 

2. Endless Business Opportunities

China is the second most influential economy in the world and has strong economic relations with developing and developed countries of the world. China offers many great business opportunities and if you aim to do business with China, knowing Chinese would be an ultra great advantage. It can help you build rapport with the native Chinese and support your business growth.

3. Exposure To A Rich Culture

Mandarin is one of the oldest languages in the world with a rich culture tracing back to 5000 years ago. Understanding the language would help you experience the history of culture and civilization. Mandarin is the most widely spoken first language in the whole world with more than a billion speakers around the world. It would be a worthy experience in learning the language as it comes with exposure to its rich culture.

4. It looks good on your CV

Chinese language skills are scarce in some companies, even for companies that do a lot of business with the country. With Mandarin being needed in business, knowing the language will make you an attractive employee.

If you know Mandarin, the company you’re applying for will see you as a valuable person. After you’re hired, why not suggest holding some sessions with your co-workers to help them learn the Mandarin language too. Everyone can benefit from learning even the basics.

5. Improve your brain function

Given how different Chinese characters, accents, and history is from English, you’ll have to think outside the box. It’s a language that’s completely different from what you’re used to as an English speaker, which is why it’s a great exercise for your brain. It’ll challenge your mind like never before, and you’ll find yourself stimulated by the new knowledge you’re accumulating as you learn this unique language.

6. China’s economy is growing

Are you wondering how China’s economy has anything to do with why you should study Mandarin?

Well, the country is experiencing overwhelming growth, which means the economy is expanding and China’s popularity is booming. Not only does China have one of the most important economies in the world, but interest in the language and culture is growing.

With China’s growth comes the push to know the language. Companies and individuals are in need of professionals who understand Mandarin Chinese.

The Chinese language is the official language in six countries and it’s one of the six official languages of the United Nations.

The growth that China is experiencing is expected to continue. So, stop wondering why you should learn Mandarin… and study it instead!

7. Chinese helps personal growth

The Chinese language may seem daunting. The non-lettered alphabet and the different tones, but will ensure you it’s not as daunting as it seems.

Teachers at Keats School know that you’re questioning why learning Mandarin is important. They will spend the needed time with you as students to make sure you understand the language, the practice, and why this language will benefit your future before moving ahead in the course.

The Chinese culture is amongst the most eye-opening and intricately woven cultures in the world. It has a number of customs, traditions, and language characters to learn. When you learn Mandarin, not only do you learn the language, but you learn the Chinese way of life too. It may be surprising to you how different life can be. These experiences and language skills will deepen your personal growth.

I suggest you Start Learning Chinese Now!

If you are swayed by arguments that Chinese is difficult to learn, it’s probably time to change your misconceptions as Chinese is not that difficult to learn. It doesn’t have complicated grammar nor tenses but only relies on the four main tones. It’s easy if you are willing to put in the effort and be dedicated for a few months.

All the Best!!!