Mastering Foreign Languages: A Key Advantage for Global Leaders & Professionals

By: Karishma Rodrigues, Founder & Mentor, Accent French

Karishma Rodrigues is a French language expert with over 20 years in education and translation. Blending innovation with pedagogy, she has crafted engaging curricula and a results-driven methodology. From educator to author and entrepreneur, she champions inclusive, tech-enabled language learning, making quality French education accessible and enjoyable for all. 

In a conversation with the Women Entrepreneurs Review team, Karishma talks about the impact learning a foreign language can have on a professional’s career in today’s globalised business landscape. She highlights how foreign language mastery can empower leaders communicate better and improve business outcomes in foreign nations. Leaning on her vast experience, Karishma also shares practical advice for professionals looking to learn the French language.

Read the article below to know more.

In today’s rapidly globalized market, how do you perceive the role of foreign language skills in driving cross-cultural business expansion and enhancing communication strategies for organizations?

When expanding one’s business across the globe, it is evidently very important to be able to communicate in the local language for several reasons. The first reason is that it allows you to understand the culture of that country, making you more aware of their working environment, communication style, and negotiating tactics. In addition to this, having this skill set enables one to maintain a cohesive global identity while remaining flexible enough to operate effectively in diverse cultural settings.

With the rise of globally distributed teams, how can multilingualism foster stronger collaboration and innovation across borders? What impact does this have on leadership effectiveness?

I believe leadership is truly effective when the company’s vision is clear and communicated clearly, motivating the team to work together toward those goals—especially when we're talking about expanding business across borders.

Research shows that multilingual individuals often have better cognitive flexibility, meaning they’re skilled at viewing problems from different angles and finding creative solutions—a highly valuable trait for any leader.

Being multilingual allows leaders to communicate directly with their team in their own language, eliminating the need for a translator and reducing the chances of misunderstandings. Furthermore, speaking the language of the country you plan to work in helps build goodwill and emotional connection, which can lead to stronger, more unified teams.

In short, it enhances creativity, enables quicker and more informed strategic decisions, and helps build trust among coworkers.

Given the current demand for global talent, how does proficiency in foreign languages give professionals a competitive edge in an increasingly interconnected industry?

Learning a language is like a fast track to developing a wide range of qualities. It enhances cultural openness, sharpens critical thinking, and improves listening skills and memory. It also shapes you into a more disciplined individual—someone who respects and adapts easily to diverse and inclusive environments.

All of these added qualities make a person mentally stronger and more confident when stepping into both social and professional settings.

For professionals looking to learn the French language, where should they begin? What are some things they must keep in mind as beginners?

For individuals who want to learn a foreign language, it’s important to start from the very beginning—with patience and a plan. First and foremost, dedicate a sizeable amount of time to learning the language properly. Make a schedule—and stick to it.

Over the years, I’ve noticed that many people begin with enthusiasm, but due to lack of time, work pressure, or family obligations, they eventually drop out—sometimes within months, if not weeks. That’s why it’s crucial to set aside time specifically for language learning and treat it as a priority.

Secondly, I can’t stress enough the importance of self-discipline. When a person—especially a working professional—decides to learn a language, they need to remember that it’s their personal decision. There won't always be someone pushing them to stay on track. They must find the motivation within themselves to see it through.

It might feel difficult in the beginning, but don’t give up. Stay diligent, stay consistent, and with perseverance, fluency will follow.

Drawing from your vast experience, can you share a few tips or hacks to make one’s foreign language learning journey smoother and efficient?

As previously mentioned, it is essential to create a structured schedule and adhere to it consistently. Language learning presents a significant challenge, and it should be approached with dedication and commitment. One effective strategy is to join a community or forum of individuals learning the same language. Engaging in regular interaction and real-life conversations with fellow learners or native speakers provides invaluable hands-on experience.

If circumstances allow, travelling to a country where the language is spoken offers an immersive opportunity to experience the culture firsthand and develop an authentic understanding of local accents and expressions.

It is also important to set aside any inhibitions. Fluency cannot be achieved without active participation and the willingness to step outside of one’s comfort zone. Confidence and openness are key to making meaningful progress.

Lastly, learners should refrain from comparing their progress with that of others. Language acquisition is a personal journey, and each individual advances at their own pace. In conclusion, approaching language learning with curiosity, determination, and an open mind ensures not only linguistic growth but also broader cultural understanding—truly, the possibilities are limitless.