In today’s global workforce, being multilingual is no longer just a bonus—it’s a competitive edge. Whether you’re managing international clients, working with cross-border teams, or eyeing a promotion, learning a new language can unlock opportunities. But here’s the good news: you don’t always have to pay for language training yourself. If you’re wondering how to […]
In today’s global workforce, being multilingual is no longer just a bonus—it’s a competitive edge. Whether you’re managing international clients, working with cross-border teams, or eyeing a promotion, learning a new language can unlock opportunities. But here’s the good news: you don’t always have to pay for language training yourself.
If you’re wondering how to request language training from your employer, this guide will walk you through the steps—plus we’ve included a customizable email template to make your request easier and more persuasive.
Many companies are willing to sponsor training programs that improve job performance, boost employee retention, and expand global operations. Language training isn’t just about learning to speak another language—it’s a strategic investment in employee development.
According to a 2024 study published on ResearchGate, employee training significantly impacts job satisfaction and organizational commitment, which in turn drive overall performance. This is especially important in industries that rely on international collaboration, client relations, and global outreach.
By equipping employees with language skills, companies are not just closing communication gaps—they’re:
Strengthening loyalty and motivation
Enhancing cross-functional collaboration
Increasing adaptability in international roles
This makes language training one of the smartest ways to develop talent internally—and a great argument to include in your proposal.
So before you hit send on that email, let’s help you build a business case that your manager can’t ignore.
Want to improve your chances of getting your training request approved? Here’s a simple, effective 4-step approach to help you build a persuasive case that resonates with your manager—and aligns with company goals.
Before you talk about what you want, explain why it matters. Think like your manager:
What value does this bring to the company?
Show how learning a new language isn’t just a personal ambition, but a way to:
Solve current communication challenges
Improve team or client collaboration
Prepare for future growth within the company
Here are some examples:
“I frequently communicate with our French-speaking partners, and learning the language would improve efficiency.”
“Expanding my Spanish skills will help me better support our growing Latin American client base.”
“With plans to relocate to our Tokyo office, I want to begin Japanese training to ease the transition.”
Your manager will likely want to know that the program you’re proposing is:
Professional and structured
Directly relevant to your role or department
Flexible enough to fit your work schedule
Make sure to do your homework and present one or two reputable training options. Ideally, choose a provider with corporate experience and a clear curriculum.
A strong example is Lingua Learn’s corporate language training, which:
Offers customized lessons for professionals
Tracks progress and outcomes over time
Can be delivered online or in hybrid formats
Supports multiple industry-specific languages
Adding a trusted provider to your proposal increases credibility—and shows you’re serious about results.
Propose starting with a language assessment to evaluate your current proficiency level. This adds a data-driven element to your proposal, and helps:
Set realistic learning goals
Provide measurable progress checkpoints
Help HR or L&D teams make more informed decisions
You can recommend a service like Lingua Learn’s assessment for corporate learners, which is tailored for professionals and can be done quickly online.
Every good business decision comes down to value. Help your manager see the return on investment for sponsoring your training. Consider including:
Cost-efficiency: “Training existing staff is far more affordable than hiring new bilingual employees.”
Productivity gains: “I’ll be able to handle client meetings or correspondence faster without translation delays.”
Team efficiency: “With better communication skills, I can reduce miscommunication risks in our multicultural projects.”
Business growth: “Improved language skills open doors to new markets or partnerships.”
When you present your request through the lens of business outcomes—not just personal interest—you build a compelling case that’s hard to ignore.
Subject: Request for Company-Sponsored Language Training
Dear [Manager’s Name],
I hope this message finds you well. I’d like to formally request support for enrolling in a professional language training program that aligns closely with my current role and future responsibilities.
As you know, [briefly mention the context—e.g., “we work closely with French-speaking partners” or “our expansion into the LATAM market brings more client communication in Spanish”].
Improving my language skills in [Language] will directly enhance my ability to [insert value—e.g., “respond faster to client inquiries,” “build stronger relationships,” or “support our global goals”].
I’ve researched options and found a professional solution that suits our team’s needs—Lingua Learn’s Corporate Language Training. The program is:
Online and flexible around work hours
Tailored to industry vocabulary
Designed to show measurable progress over time
As a next step, I’m open to taking an initial language assessment to evaluate my current level and identify focus areas.
I’d love to discuss this with you in more detail and explore how this training could support both my performance and the team’s success.
Thank you for considering this request.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Even with the best intentions, not all training requests get approved—but the way you present your proposal can make all the difference. Here are some practical tips to improve your chances of getting a “yes” from your employer:
Don’t just say, “I want to take a language course.” Come to the conversation with specific, relevant information. Include:
The language you want to learn
The training provider (such as Lingua Learn)
The structure of the course (e.g., 1:1, small group, online)
Time commitment (e.g., 2 hours/week for 3 months)
Cost estimate
By laying out the details clearly, you show that you’ve done your homework and respect your manager’s time. It also allows your employer to make a faster, more informed decision.
Frame your request in a way that aligns with your team or company’s goals. How will this training help you do your job better? Think beyond language fluency—consider how communication, efficiency, client relationships, or international projects will benefit.
For example:
“With better German skills, I can confidently handle weekly calls with our Berlin office without needing translation support.”
“By improving my Japanese, I can build stronger trust with our Tokyo-based clients, which could lead to higher retention rates.”
This positions your request not as a perk, but as an investment in better performance.
Be ready to address potential objections like time management or budget. You might say:
“The course is scheduled outside of working hours, so it won’t interfere with my tasks.”
“Compared to hiring a bilingual candidate, this training is a more cost-effective option.”
“I’m open to a trial period, or starting with just the beginner level first.”
This shows flexibility and problem-solving—qualities any employer will appreciate.
If you don’t hear back within a week, don’t assume the answer is no. Your manager might just be busy or waiting on HR approval. A polite follow-up can help move things forward.
Try something like:
“Hi [Manager’s Name], just checking in on the language training request I sent last week. I’d be happy to clarify any details or discuss further if needed.”
It shows persistence without pressure, and reminds them that you’re serious about developing your skills.
Don’t get discouraged. A “no” now doesn’t mean “never.” You can:
Ask for partial funding or a flexible payment plan
Propose a trial period for the training
Suggest joining a group class at a lower cost
And if all else fails, consider investing in yourself. A well-structured program like Lingua Learn’s can offer flexible payment plans and real-world benefits that still pay off in your career.
Knowing how to request language training from your employer is not just about asking for a course—it’s about making a case for your career development and the company’s success.
Employers appreciate initiative, especially when it’s backed by clear benefits, thoughtful research, and a willingness to invest time in improvement. With the right tone, reasoning, and timing, your request could be the start of a more global, more confident version of yourself.
Ready to take the next step?
Start with a language level assessment and show your employer that you’re serious about growth.
For tailored, flexible, and business-focused training options, explore Lingua Learn’s Corporate Language Training today.