10 Reasons to Learn German
Economy
Germany is the largest national economy in Europe and the world’s second largest exporter. This means that no matter what business you are in you will inevitably come into contact with a German investor or contributing company.
Culture
The German people as individuals tend to be extremely politically correct and polite. Yet some Germans can be intolerant of English-speaking people who visit their country without knowing any German – this can see you alienated by the locals. If you want to create a bond with the German people it is important to know the language, even if it is only the basics. If you’re staying in Germany rather than just visiting, you can learn German in Germany – being surrounded by the language will mean you advance quickly.
Business
Of the world’s 500 largest stock market listed companies measured by revenue , the Fortune Global 500, 37 are headquartered in Germany, meaning that even though it is a relatively poor company in natural resources, many of the richest and most powerful industries are based there. This kind of wealth creates jobs in professional sectors and speaking the language could help to gain employment in one of the many multi-national companies which are base in Germany.
Politics
The first female chanceller of Germany, Angela Merkel, was voted into power as part of a coalition which formed in 2005 and remains in office to date. The tough decisions which had to be taken during the economic crisis in 2008 put her on the map as one of the calmest and most rational economic leaders in Europe.
Media
Germany’s competitive television market is the largest in Europe, with some 34 million television households. Around 90% of German households have cable or satellite TV with a mixture of public and commercial channels. Some of the world’s leading media conglomerates such as Bertelsmann and publisher Axel Springer are based in Germany, making it a hub for media advances and jobs in the industry.
Art
The arts scene in Berlin is currently one of the most exciting in Europe. It is home to numerous cultural institutions, many of which enjoy a world-wide reputation. In 2003, the announcement of Popkomm, Europe’s largest music industry convention, put Germany on the map as part of the arts and culture elite of the world. Universal Music Group and MTV have since both moved their headquarters to Friedrichshain and in 2005 Berlin won the City Of Design award by UNESCO.
History
Germany is one of the most historically enriched countries in Europe but as with many countries the only way to really understand the culture which led to some of the most important events of the 20th Century is to get to grips with the language. If you choose to look for work in the capital it is worth taking a German course in Berlin which will not only improve your chances of employment but also help you to understand the culture which is inevitably mixed with the historical value of the country.
Education
The divisive nature of the German education system, which separates students into different types of institutions based on their academic ability at the age of 12, is controversial in parts of Europe, however it is widely accepted that the high standards have positive effects on students and many families from the UK are happy to settle there as state universities charge small – if any – tuition fees.
Standard of living
Various elements of German life appeal to many people who wish to move to a different country. The social welfare and benefits system is one of the most comprehensive in Europe and Germany has extensive help available for groups such as orphans, widows and farmers.
Employment
The German economy grew by 3.6% in 2010, prompting a surge of workers from countries such as Spain and Greece, who are suffering the worst unemployment rate in recent history. German visa laws allow European citizens with specialised skils to enter the country with a job. Many have opted to learn German and move somewhere with more prospects than currently offered by their homeland.
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