Speaking a second language ''could give contractors an edge''

The ability to speak a second language could give contractors an edge when competing for a project.

Contractors looking to set themselves out from the crowd could train themselves to speak another language to get an edge in the employment market.

Teresa Tinsley, director of communications at the Centre for Information on Language, Teaching and Research (CILT), has highlighted the fact that the language which is chosen will have a strong impact on a person''s job prospects.

She said: "It''s clear that some languages are more sought after than others, that there are more jobs advertised [for certain languages]."

Some of the most popular languages at present are European, such as French and German, but she emphasises the fact that it is important to predict which languages will be in demand down the line when making a choice.

Growing economies could be the best bet for contractors looking to boost their job prospects, with Ms Tinsley highlighting the languages of Arabic countries, Russia, India and Brazil as those likely to be in most demand in the future.

Recent research by the CILT found that 43 per cent of recruiters say that having a second language can be a crucial advantage for those applying for work.