The Importance of Learning the Chinese Language

Knowledge of Chinese is becoming increasingly important in the global economy. Many businesses rely on contacts and connections with Chinese manufacturers and facilities. Hiring employees with Chinese-language skills is a benefit to employers.

Significance

China is becoming more technologically advanced and more relevant as a trading partner for many nations. It also has the largest population on the planet. Being able to communicate effectively with Chinese people to expand and create global relations can be important in today's world.

Types

The most in-demand Chinese-language skills are those for Mandarin, using the pinyin tonal system of speaking.

Effects

Seeing its growing importance, more American schools and universities have started to offer Chinese as one of their options alongside Spanish and French. See the resources section for a Seattle Times article about the increase of Chinese in schools.

Considerations

Things to consider when learning Chinese are whether Chinese lessons are offered in your area through local schools or tutors, where to get formal in-class instruction and how to get speaking experience.
If formal Chinese classes are not available, you may want to consider independent study from an online source.

Benefits

Learning Chinese is beneficial whether you do so for fun, to improve your career potential or for business and personal travel.

References

• The Seattle Times

Resources

• Language Learning Advisor
• The Chinese Outpost
• ClassBrain.com