In an increasingly globalised business world, the ability to communicate in several languages has become an essential tool for companies looking to expand and establish themselves in international markets. Subsidised language training not only improves employees’ language skills, it also brings a series of benefits that have a direct impact on the organisation’s competitiveness and efficiency.
What is subsidised language training?
Subsidised training is a funding scheme that allows companies to train their staff without incurring additional costs. In Spain, this scheme is managed by the Fundación Estatal para la Formación en el Empleo (FUNDAE, the Spanish state foundation for workplace training), which allows companies to offset the cost of training against their social security contributions. This means that companies can offer language courses to their employees at practically no cost, by making use of the training credits available each year.
Benefits of language training for the company
1. Better internal and external communication
Having employees who speak several languages makes it easier to communicate with international clients, suppliers and partners. That reduces misunderstandings and strengthens commercial relationships, allowing for smoother and more effective dealings. Efficient internal communication between multicultural teams also improves cohesion and teamwork.
2. Access to new markets
A command of foreign languages opens the door to international markets, allowing the company to extend its reach and diversify its sources of income. Knowing languages such as Chinese or Arabic, for example, can be key to entering emerging markets with strong growth potential.
3. Higher productivity and efficiency
Employees trained in languages can carry out their work with greater confidence and independence, especially in tasks involving contact with foreign clients or suppliers. That translates into greater operational efficiency and an ability to solve problems more effectively.
4. Attracting and retaining talent
Offering language training programmes signals that the company invests in its employees’ professional development. That not only improves job satisfaction, it also attracts highly qualified professionals looking for opportunities to grow and develop.
5. Competitive advantage
In sectors where competition is intense, having a multilingual team can be the differentiating factor that tips the balance in the company’s favour. Being able to communicate in the language of the client or the target market demonstrates commitment and professionalism, strengthening the company’s position against its competitors.
Rolling out subsidised training in the company
To make the most of the benefits of subsidised language training, it is essential to follow a series of steps that ensure an effective roll-out aligned with the company’s strategic objectives.
1. Assessing needs
Before starting any training programme, it is essential to identify the company’s specific needs. That means analysing which areas or departments most critically need a command of certain languages and how that skill can have a positive impact on commercial objectives.
2. Choosing training providers
Choosing institutions or academies specialising in language training for companies guarantees that the programmes on offer are tailored to the business environment and the specific needs of the sector. It is advisable to choose providers offering flexibility in timetables and teaching formats, such as in-person, online or hybrid classes.
3. Managing the subsidy
Sound administrative management is key to making use of the training credits available. That includes enrolling on the courses, dealing with FUNDAE and applying the subsidies to social security contributions. Having specialist advice, or providers who offer this service, can simplify the process and ensure that all legal requirements are met.
4. Monitoring and evaluation
Putting monitoring mechanisms in place makes it possible to measure employees’ progress and the effectiveness of the training programme. Regular assessments and constant feedback help to adjust the content and teaching methods to the changing needs of the company and the market.
Success stories in language training: Siemens and language training for global expansion
The German multinational Siemens, a leader in technology and innovation, rolled out an ambitious language training programme for its employees with the aim of supporting its international expansion and improving communication between its global teams.
The company, which operates in more than 190 countries, identified language differences as an obstacle to managing international projects and to cooperation between its sites. To resolve this, Siemens invested in training its employees in English, German and Chinese, using flexible methods such as online training and tailored classes.
Results:
- It achieved an increase of 40% in communication efficiency on international projects.
- A reduction of 30% in misinterpretations in key meetings and documents.
- An increase in employee satisfaction, which contributed to greater retention of talent..
Thanks to this programme, Siemens improved its operational capacity in key markets and optimised cooperation between its teams, consolidating its presence in new strategic markets. The company has also invested significantly in training, allocating €227 million a year to training programmes for interns, which reflects its commitment to skills development, including language skills, according to the sources consulted.
Numerous companies have seen significant improvements after rolling out language training programmes.
Facts about language training in the business world
- Impact on employability: according to a World Economic Forum study, 26% of job vacancies on the labour market require knowledge of a foreign language, with English the most in demand. World Economic Forum
- The best-paid languages: although English is the most requested language, in Spain a knowledge of Romanian is associated with the highest salaries, reaching an average of €82,865 a year. AS
- Innovative training: gamification has become an effective strategy in language training, using game elements to increase employees’ motivation and engagement. El País
Invest in subsidised language training and grow your company at no extra cost
Subsidised language training is a strategic investment that brings companies multiple benefits, from better communication and efficiency to expansion into new markets and the retention of talent. Making use of the resources available, such as FUNDAE training credits, allows organisations to strengthen their language skills without incurring significant additional costs. Rolling out a well-structured language training programme can make the difference between a company that adapts and grows in a global market and one that falls behind the competition.
Investing in language training for your employees not only improves their individual performance, it also strengthens the competitiveness and growth of your company in a globalised environment. At Alos Idiomaswe offer tailored training programmes for companies, professionals and adults, designed to fit the needs of today’s business world. Whether the aim is to improve internal communication, negotiate with international clients or expand your business into new markets, our courses will help you reach your objectives. Find out how we can develop your team’s talent with quality training!
Would you like to boost your company’s competitiveness?
If you would like to improve your team’s language skills and take advantage of subsidised training, at Alos Idiomas we offer programmes tailored to the needs of each company. Our bespoke courses will help you strengthen communication, productivity and the international growth of your business. Get in touch and find out how we can help you grow!
(FAQ) Frequently asked questions about subsidised language training courses for companies
It is a funding scheme for companies that allows them to offer language training to their employees at no cost, through the training credits managed by FUNDAE.
Subsidised training improves communication with international clients, increases productivity, makes expansion into new markets easier and strengthens the company’s competitiveness.
English remains the most requested language, but others such as Chinese, German and French are also key in various sectors and markets.
To access subsidised training, you need to identify the company’s needs, select an accredited provider and manage the subsidy through FUNDAE.
We offer bespoke courses, flexible timetables, online and in-person training, and we manage the subsidy so that your company makes the most of its training credits. See further details on our website: Alos Idiomas.