Multilingualism is becoming more and more important in our globalized world. With the increasing demand for individuals proficient in multiple languages, it is not uncommon to see resumes with several languages listed under “Skills”. However, what happens when you list a language, but it turns out you’re not actually as fluent as you claimed?
Implications of False Language Proficiency
Exaggerating one’s language abilities on a resume can lead to uncomfortable situations, especially when it is revealed that you don’t actually speak the language as well as you claimed. This can severely impact your professional relationships and even the quality of your work.
Example 1: The Business Deal Gone Wrong
Imagine you apply for a position that requires fluency in a foreign language, and you list it as one of your skills. The employer, impressed by your resume, decides to sign a business deal with a foreign company, confident that you can communicate effectively with the foreign counterparts. However, during a business meeting, you find yourself struggling to keep up with the conversation, and the deal falls through.
Example 2: Mistrust and Lost Opportunities
Another example would be if you are invited to work with a multicultural team, and one of your teammates can speak the language you listed. They start speaking to you in that language, and you realize that your proficiency is not as good as you claimed on your resume. This could lead to an awkward situation, and mistrust from your colleagues may arise, ultimately leading to lost opportunities.
The Importance of Accurately Representing Your Language Skills
It is crucial to accurately represent your language skills on your resume. Not only does it avoid awkward situations and mistrust, but it also enables you to fully leverage your language abilities. Honesty is key when it comes to your professional life, and it is vital to be transparent about your language abilities.
Pro Tip: An Accurate Representation of Language Proficiency
It is not necessary to list every language you have ever studied if you do not feel confident in using it even in a basic setting. A much better approach would be to use the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR) to rate your proficiency.
- A1 – Beginner
- A2 – Elementary
- B1 – Intermediate
- B2 – Upper Intermediate
- C1 – Advanced
- C2 – Mastery
For example, if you are proficient in Spanish, and have taken the DELE exam and received a C1 rating, it would be beneficial to note in your resume that you are fluent in Spanish with a C1 rating, instead of simply saying you are proficient in Spanish.
Key Takeaways
- Exaggerating language proficiency on your resume can lead to awkward situations and mistrust, ultimately negatively affecting your professional relationships and even your work.
- Accurately representing your language skills on your resume allows you to better leverage your abilities and avoid uncomfortable situations, ultimately benefiting your professional career.
- Use the CEFR to rate your language proficiency and indicate which languages you are fluent in with their respective rating.
FAQs
Q: What if I’m not sure about my language proficiency?A: Take an official proficiency test or honest ask for feedback from native speakers.
Q: Should I still list every language I know?A: No, only list the languages you are confident in using in a professional setting, otherwise, the rating or proficiency level you indicate should reflect your precise ability in a language.
Q: How does one measure their proficiency in a language?A: Take a proficiency test or use the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR) to rate your proficiency.
Q: What else can I do to improve my language skills?A: Practice and immerse yourself in the language as much as possible – watch foreign films, read books in that language, speak with native speakers, attend classes, and take courses.