Dear Job Doctor,
I have many years of work experience. I speak French and English and wonder if it is better to learn German or Luxemburgish?
It really depends on what direction you wish to take and what further opportunities are available in each language.
Outside of the Luxembourg administration, Luxembourgish is rarely an essential requirement for the majority of careers. Although it can be desirable if an organisation employs a majority of Luxembourgers.
The most common trilingual opportunities in Luxembourg require those who can speak English, French and German.
Do your research before embarking on what will undoubtedly be a time intensive task that is likely to take many years to master.
Search the online jobsites to uncover whether your current or future career path demands German or Luxembourgish. Ask people in your network who currently work within your desired occupation. Contact a knowledgeable recruitment firm who specialises in your discipline and industry sector for guidance.
Fluency may not be enough
It is worth noting that most opportunities in Luxembourg that require German, require a native-level competence; fluency (as defined by linguists) is not enough. However, those requiring Luxembourgish are more accommodating.
Also see:
Darren Robinson is managing director of Badenoch & Clark Luxembourg, the largest staffing and recruitment firm in the Grand Duchy.
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