There are many great reasons to learn French, but many people decide to do so because it can help them get better jobs.
More and more companies are opening offices in different countries. And speaking French is a notable benefit in the job market. It can make you stand out from other candidates and give you a competitive advantage.
There are many ways to use your French language skills today. With the across-the-board usage of French, you may be surprised by the many possibilities available!
No matter what kind of job you have or want, the ability to speak French can be helpful. But some positions demand it more than others.
Knowing the job potential is crucial if you’re serious about your career. If you want to improve your employment opportunities, the French language can add wings and features to your profile.
Let’s explore all!
Table of Contents
Why choose French of all languages for jobs?
Have you ever thought about learning French?
And why not?
Besides a beautiful language, it can open many doors for your career. French is spoken in over 30 countries, so you’ll have plenty of chances to practice and meet new people.
The pleasing news is French is also one of the simplest languages to study, especially for English speakers. So, even if you don’t think you’re good at learning languages, you can still do well.
Of course, there are some difficulties, like pronunciation and accents.
The French language can also make you more attractive to employers. Many companies seek people who speak French and English, primarily if they do business internationally.
Learning the language can lead to a career you love if you’re passionate about French. With so many benefits of learning French, it’s worth trying it.
You might discover a new passion and see how delightful language learning can be!
Is it easy to make a career in French?
Finding employment that paid well in the language-based domain was easy at one point.
The starting point has become challenging, with more people competing for these positions. But don’t worry. There are still options for deserving candidates who are willing to work hard.
You’ll need a proper plan and work your way up from the bottom. It would help if you gain experience through internships, volunteering, and jobs that may pay less at the beginning.
You can eventually find assignments and work that pay better and offer more growth prospects.
Once your career takes off, there are plenty of possibilities to explore with higher salaries, growth potential, incentives, and perks.
It may take some time, but don’t give up! You can achieve success in language-related jobs with hard work and dedication.
Qualifications needed to find jobs related to French
The qualifications for a well-paying job in a French-related field can vary. It depends on the specific job, profile, and industry.
For example, a beginner level is acceptable for jobs that only use a little French. In contrast, positions like customer support demand at least a lower intermediate. DELF B1/B2, a diploma or bachelor’s in French, is okay.
Certain work profiles demand specific skills. For instance, a linguist tour guide must be fluent in verbal communication. He must speak flawlessly. On the other hand, a writer needs advanced writing and reading talents.
And if you are looking for specialist jobs like translator or interpreter, native or near-native proficiency is often a fundamental need. This includes strong speaking, writing, reading, and listening skills.
A diploma or degree in French or a connected field is often preferred. Some roles may need advanced certifications for specialized positions.
Relevant certifications can enhance your credentials. E.g., certificates in translation or interpretation from reputed institutions show your expertise. French language proficiency exams like DELF/DALF are useful.
Depending on the job, employers may seek candidates with distinct skills. For instance, technical writing, subtitling, localization, or sector-specific terms (e.g., medical, legal, technology). Your soft and technical skills are an added advantage.
Practical experience in language-related roles, internships, or relevant projects can boost your chances. This experience can include translation work, interpretation, language teaching, or content creation.
When pursuing a language-linked job, tailor your application materials like a resume, cover letter, and portfolio. Highlight your language skills, relevant experience, and any extra qualifications that make you stand out.
You can stay updated on industry trends and technologies, showing your commitment to professional development. The professional network can open up prospects. Also, attend industry events, join groups, and connect with professionals in your field that interest you.
24 Jobs that need French language abilities
Many job prospects in French are available for people who are good at speaking or want to learn.
Knowing French can open up many career paths for you regardless of your goal, interest, or where you live.
I have compiled a list of compelling career options after learning French. Your language fluency can help cement your future and make it promising.
1. Career as a French Translator
Learning French is a great way to open up many career opportunities. One such profession is that of a translator.
A translator translates books, websites, newspapers, instruction manuals, and more from one language to another.
Being a translator can be a remarkable career preference, as it offers much flexibility. You can earn good money. Freelance translators can work whenever they want and decide their schedules and pricing.
With time, translators can also specialize in various fields, such as science, medicine, law, education, or literature. This can help them increase their earning potential by attracting high-paying language jobs.
If you’re curious about learning French and enjoy working with languages, becoming a translator can be a rewarding and fulfilling career option.
2. Jobs for French Interpreter
Interpreters help people communicate with each other when they speak various languages. They are vital nowadays as people from different nations work together or attend events, seminars, and meetings.
Interpreters can work in various places, such as conferences, courtrooms, or businesses. There are many ways to find work in this field, especially if you have excellent language skills and some experience.
There is a growing demand for high-paying simultaneous, whisper, and consecutive interpretations today. You can also work in the travel and tourism industry.
To become an interpreter, you should know that it is a competitive field. You need to be a near-native-level speaker of at least two languages. Aim for a C1/C2 of DELF test or MA in French and some relevant experience.
Aim for a high level of proficiency in a language and some appropriate experience. You will also need to understand different accents and body language.
But if you are up for the challenge, it can be a profitable career!
3. Employment at Embassies and Consulates
Working at an embassy might be splendid if you know French and seek more job options. Embassy positions are in high demand and usually pay well, too.
Many jobs are available at embassies. E.g., marketing, public relations, translation, interpretation, social media management, analysis, library science, human resources, IT, finance, support, administration, and more.
Your language skills could still benefit the job market even if you’re not looking for jobs requiring French.
You may also work as a French language teacher at cultural centers like Alliance Française or similar associations.
Not all positions require French aptitudes, but language competency can be advantageous when applying.
4. Content Creator
Creating content in French is fruitful if you involve your audience and create quality content.
By making your content available in both English (or your native language) and French, you can reach a wider audience worldwide.
You can create many types of content. E.g., social media interactions, reviews, news, blogs, videos, and more. You can use your creativity to make it fascinating and valuable.
French can help you get a job as a content writer if you’re curious about working with a company that serves French-speaking clients.
As a French writer, your job is to produce original writing on time after doing research. You can pen new content or improve existing content depending on the need.
You can work as a full-time employee or as a freelance writer from home.
5. Flight attendants and the aviation sector
Do you love traveling the world and exploring new cultures while learning a new language?
If so, you might be interested in working in the aviation industry or as a flight attendant.
Flight assistants are known for being friendly to passengers. They often speak multiple languages to talk with people from diverse places.
French is a language that is valuable in many parts of the world. Knowing how to speak it if you want to work in aviation can be very worthwhile.
It can also benefit other aviation jobs, such as visitor information centers, support executives, airfare and ticketing staff, transport officers, logistics, and immigration officers.
If you want to work in aviation and express yourself in French, it could give you an edge when applying for jobs, especially as a flight attendant.
6. Teaching English in Francophone regions
In French-speaking regions, many schools and educational institutions need teachers who can teach English to their students.
This is because English is a crucial language for contact with people from different countries and is often learned as a second language.
To become an English teacher in these institutions, you must be fluent in English and have some basic French skills. It can also be helpful to have some experience and pass the level of the French test.
Sometimes, finding a job teaching English (ESL – English as a second language) can take time and effort.
This is because of the policies and rules of the institutions. These centers often prefer to hire teachers from English-speaking countries.
They may also consider non-native speakers who speak English fluently and have the proper certifications, like TEFL, TESOL, or CELTA.
Teaching English in France or Francophone areas is an incredible way to experience their rich cultures and lifestyles. You can find many types of places to teach. For example, schools, universities, private institutes, and English tuition centers.
7. Blogging on French and Francophone places
If you love writing and know French-speaking countries well, you can become a freelance blogger. You can indeed make a career out of it.
You can write about many interesting topics. For instance, teaching French, culture, food, festivals, lifestyle, music, movies, and travel.
Blogging has three significant benefits.
First, you get to write about what you love, which is the French language and culture where it is widespread. Second, you can work from anywhere and any time that suits you. Finally, you can make a good income.
You can make money through your blog by displaying ads, writing sponsored articles, doing product reviews, and promoting products and services. You can also sell courses. The possibilities are endless!
Blogging lets you share your passion for French and earn a paycheck.
But it’s not easy to succeed. It takes time to build an audience, and you must create high-quality, unique content to attract viewers. Once you have a loyal audience, many opportunities can open up.
8. International business and import-export houses
Do you enjoy learning about different industries like fashion, cars, food, metals, education, and more? If so, have you considered learning to speak French?
Knowing a second language can open up new career options, especially in sales and marketing at global companies. French helps you express yourself with French-speaking corporations and convince them to do business with your company.
If you become an international sales manager, you may travel to other countries and earn high incomes with bonuses for meeting targets.
Pursuing an MBA in international sales marketing and French can increase your chances of getting a job with companies in France, Canada, Europe, and Africa.
Many organizations seek people with these skills, so you have many career choices!
9. French YouTuber and Vlogger
Have you ever considered creating a YouTube channel or posting videos on Instagram, TikTok, or Facebook? It can be a fun way to express your creativity and make money.
YouTube has been the most famous platform for posting videos for many years. Still, Instagram is quickly gaining popularity with younger people.
You can make various videos, from teaching a language to showing different aspects of diverse cultures.
Platforms like Facebook Reels, Pinterest video pins, and TikTok allow you to create and share videos.
But how do you make money from your videos?
As a French YouTuber, for example, you can teach your subscribers the French language and share different cultural aspects of France and other French-speaking countries.
You can also make “how-to” videos and tutorials to promote products or services.
You earn money from your videos through affiliate marketing, promotions, collaboration, and advertisements. But building a following and making good money takes time and effort.
So, to become a YouTuber or vlogger, start by doing it part-time and wait for good returns before making it a full-time career. Keep making regular videos and engaging with your audience.
With patience and dedication, success can come your way!
10. Lawyers and Law firms
When people or companies face legal issues or need advice, they hire lawyers. Some attorneys specialize in international law and work with clients globally, including French-speaking consumers.
Knowing French can benefit lawyers working with companies in French-speaking countries. Thus, students interested in pursuing a career in law and having French language skills can have a splendid chance in this field.
Some counselors also assist people with immigration issues. For this, they need to convey effectively to their clients. Learning French can be helpful for lawyers who work in this area.
Learning French is an exceptional option if you want to become a lawyer!
11. French specialist jobs in the multinational corporation
Many big companies worldwide strive for people who can talk to their customers and business partners in different nations.
This includes France, Canada, Central Europe, North and West Africa, and other places. They need people who can speak French fluently for various jobs, including IT and non-IT roles.
Some jobs have moved to other areas because of offshoring, outsourcing, and IT-enabled services (ITES). This has made it increasingly important for job seekers to learn foreign languages. E.g., French to improve career prospects.
Large global corporations are growing and will continue to do so in the coming years. Thus, having language skills can give you a competitive edge in the job market.
12. Being a French Language Teacher
Learning a new language is becoming more and more popular these days.
Many people from different backgrounds want to learn a language like French, whether for work, study, travel, or fun. This means more and more opportunities exist for people who wish to teach French.
If you want to teach French, you can work in schools, colleges, institutes, or language schools.
To stand out from the crowd, having a high level of French proficiency is essential. Aim for levels like B2 of DELF or C1 of DALF, which measure your language mastery. Some teaching experience is also valuable.
Many jobs are available if you want to teach French.
You can teach students who wish to study in France, Canada, or other French-speaking countries. For that, create pre-recorded programs. You can also offer online French language classes through platforms like YouTube or Vimeo.
13. Research analyst
Businesses need to do research and understand their market. This helps them learn about their competitors and the market they’re in.
Understanding information in different languages is also critical, mainly in a global market where competition comes from many countries.
If you speak French, it could be beneficial for a company that competes with French-speaking enterprises.
If you like researching and analyzing information, you might enjoy working as a research analyst. And if you can read French well, that would be a big plus!
14. Brand Ambassador
Fashion and luxury companies often hire people from different nations to help promote their brands. This can help them sell more products and build a better reputation.
For example, companies might hire you to represent a brand in France and other French-speaking places if you speak French well.
This can make things easier for everyone because the company won’t need translators to speak with local offices. It’s a win-win situation!
15. Employment in French-speaking companies
Learning French can be valuable if you consider working in a French or African company. Many of your colleagues may speak French, making contact easier.
Many well-known French companies globally offer bilingual job options. For example, Renault, Christian Dior, Michelin, Engie, Carrefour, Total, Peugeot, Orange, Engie, and many large and mid-sized businesses.
Understanding French can also increase your chances of finding a good job, earning higher salaries, and receiving more benefits. Even if the job you’re applying for doesn’t require French, it can still be a benefit over other candidates who don’t speak the language.
Some employers might not require English skills but may value your ability to speak French. This can give you an edge over other applicants.
16. Tourism, Travel, and Hospitality industry
Tourism is a big industry in every country, and many businesses benefit from having someone who can speak the language of the tourists.
French is a handy language in travel and tourism as the world becomes more connected.
If you speak French, there is much work for you in the travel and tourism industry. You could be a tour guide, photographer, event manager, travel consultant, adventure tourism expert, or travel writer.
Without French, you might still need help communicating with locals when you travel to a French-speaking region or when French speakers visit your country.
Having someone who can speak French would be very helpful in these situations.
As a result, there are plenty of excellent options for high-paying IT careers in such areas that you can even do from home. They are trying to make it easier for skilled workers to immigrate and fill the labor shortage.
17. Professionals in Information Technology
Nowadays, because of globalization and the growth of the French-speaking economy, there is a high demand for people who know how to speak French fluently.
Interestingly, France, Belgium, Canada, Switzerland, Luxembourg, etc., have noteworthy French speakers and top players in the information technology sector.
There is also the possibility to make apps for French learners.
Since the IT industry requires a lot of skilled workers, companies are looking for talent worldwide. This way, they can expand their operations to other regions and have a global presence.
So, if you’re passionate about training in French, there are many ways to get started. With French becoming more and more popular, there are many learners out there who want to study with you!
18. Bilingual Customer Support
As the world becomes more connected, many developing countries like India see more job opportunities in outsourcing. It means firms in other countries hire people to do specific tasks.
There are different outsourcing jobs.
For instance, ones where you help with business tasks like answering phone calls, emails, and chats. If you’re good at verbal, you can even work from home as an expert in that language.
One job is working in a call center where you help people who live in other countries with their questions or problems.
You can work in finance, banking, oil & gas, automobile, medicine, tourism, engineering, insurance, education, manufacturing, telecom, hospitality, aviation, and more.
19. Journalism, reporters, and jobs in news agency
People who work in journalism and reporting gather and share news and information that is accurate and up-to-date. This helps people understand what is happening in the world with no biases.
To do this job well, journalists need to be good at talking to people and sharing information that is easy to understand.
Sometimes, reporters and presses must cover stories where people speak a distinct language. Knowing more languages, like French, can be practical in those situations.
Understanding different countries, businesses, and laws is vital to becoming a journalist. This can help you write informative and engaging stories for your readers.
20. Banking officer and finance sector
Suppose you work at an enormous bank that deals with clients from all over the world. In that case, it’s imperative to communicate things about money in a way that is easy to understand.
To do this work well, you must know much about finance, including how it works in different countries and the rules and laws. Studying finance and getting certifications to prepare for this job is a good idea.
If you’re interested in French, there are some big companies that you might want to know about.
For instance, AXA, CNP Assurances, BNP Paribas, Société Générale, and many more. These financial firms offer jobs in international banking and insurance that pay well.
21. Subtitle writer work
French movies, TV shows, documentaries, and videos are getting popular worldwide. They can help people learn more about different cultures and histories and improve their language skills.
Some people need help to understand the language of these films and shows. That’s why subtitles are paramount — they help you enjoy the content even if you don’t understand the language.
In the same way, French speakers love watching flicks and television shows from other countries with English subtitles. It helps them grasp the content better.
So, there is a need for people who can write subtitles in English for French content.
Being a subtitle writer can be a fun and rewarding career. You can watch films and shows for free and improve your language skills. Plus, you can make reasonable cash while doing it!
22. French Voice-Over Artists
Voice-over artists lend their voices to bring life to various characters and content in industries like movies, TV shows, radio, music, and video games.
To become a voice-over artist, one needs to work on their skills by practicing how to deliver different types of content. Companies often hire native French speakers who can provide an authentic accent and tone for their projects.
It is also crucial for aspiring voice-over artists to network, hone their acting abilities, and gain experience in the field.
After learning French, you can find many job openings for voice-over artists exist, including remote work. You can find these employment listings on Voices, Fiverr, Upwork, and many other websites.
23. Recruiter or Human resource
A French recruiter helps companies find the right people for jobs requiring French language skills or for companies operating in French-speaking regions.
To do this job well, a recruiter must understand French to evaluate a candidate’s language skills and cultural fit. They also need to have skills like networking, negotiation, and communication.
Human Resources professionals help job seekers find jobs by looking for potential candidates and assessing their skills.
They also help job seekers through the application process, schedule job interviews, and help them get started with a new company.
24. Jobs in internal organizations and non-profit
French is the official language of dozens of international non-profit organizations.
This includes the International Red Cross, NATO, UNESCO, the European Union, the African Union, the International Red Cross, the International Olympic Committee, international courts, and more.
Learning French can be highly beneficial when working for such global bodies. The fact that these influential institutions use French is clearly a motivating factor.
Where to find jobs involving French?
Depending on your interests and qualifications, there are several ways to find jobs after learning French. You can explore various avenues.
Here are some options and suggestions.
1. Networking
Networking is a powerful tool for finding job opportunities, and it’s vital when looking for a job in a specific field or location.
You can also attend industry events, networking functions, and language-related meetups. Networking can lead to job prospects and connections with professionals in your field.
It is best to contact people in your professional network who are fluent in French or work in French-speaking countries or organizations. Ask them if they know of any job openings, as they have some references or are aware of new jobs in their known companies.
2. Job search websites & language job boards
Today, you can find French-related jobs in plenty of job portals.
Many websites list job openings for people with French language skills. For example, LinkedIn, Indeed, Naukri, Foundit, Shine, Indeed, Glassdoor, TimesJobs, Freshersworld, and many more.
These platforms allow you to search for jobs based on French language mastery. There are also some filters specifically for such positions.
Many specialized language job boards exist, like ProZ, Top Language, and TranslatorsCafe Jobs. You can find job listings for writers, translators, interpreters, and other language-related roles.
3. Company Websites
Do you have a targeted list of companies to approach for job openings? If so, going directly to the company website is an effective job search method.
Visit companies’ websites and social pages operating in industries where knowledge of French is valuable. Many multinational companies and organizations have job listings on their websites.
You can find and apply to all positions online at many company sites, from part-time hourly work to top management positions.
3. Language schools, services providers, and immersion programs
Many French-language schools and immersion programs connect with organizations looking for French speakers. Reaching out to them is an excellent way to find job opportunities.
If you want to teach the language, consider teaching French as a foreign language. Language schools, educational institutions, and online platforms often hire French language teachers.
You can also look for positions in language service providers, translation agencies, and language schools. These organizations often require people with proficiency in French.
4. International Organizations, Embassies and Consulates
Check the websites of international organizations, such as the United Nations, UNESCO, or the European Union. These organizations may have job options that require knowledge of French.
Explore language jobs with embassies and consulates, as they often require staff with language skills for diplomatic and administrative roles.
5. Freelance Platforms
Consider freelancing on platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, or Freelancer if you have specific skills. You can find translation, writing, and other language-related gigs.
You can also use social channels like Facebook, LinkedIn, Quora, Twitter, Instagram, etc., to offer freelance jobs.
6. Recruitment agencies
Some recruitment agencies specialize in placing candidates with language skills in specific industries or locations. Contacting them might be a good idea.
It can help match your skills with relevant job possibilities.
7. French professional organizations
Consider joining professional organizations related to your interest, as they can be ideal sources of job leads and professional development chances.
You can also join professional groups related to language and translation. These organizations often have job boards or resources for members.
8. Internships
An internship can be an excellent way to gain experience and develop skills. Many internships are available in French-speaking countries and organizations.
Finding French language internships can be rewarding for gaining practical experience while improving your language skills.
9. Job fairs
Attending job fairs can be fabulous for exploring French-related job openings and connecting with potential employers.
Remember that job fairs can be dynamic. Chances may arise even if they are not explicitly advertised as French-related.
Be proactive in approaching firms and networking with representatives from various organizations to maximize your chances of finding relevant employment.
Some job fairs specifically target bilingual or multilingual job seekers. Attending them could allow you to meet employers and explore potential job opportunities.
Wrapping Up on Career options after learning French
Learning French can be a great way to boost your language skills and open up new career opportunities. It can give you an edge in today’s job market and help you secure a job globally.
The possibilities are endless, from international business to diplomacy, education to fashion. So start learning French today and take the first step towards a successful and fulfilling career.
You can customize your resume and cover letter for jobs requiring French skills. Focus on language ability and any related experience that you have. It may be helpful to reach out to experts in your desired field for guidance and valuable insights.
If you’re interested in improving your French, LanguageNext has a range of programs to fit your needs. You can check the TEF or TCF Canada course.
You can take an online course or attend in-person classes at our institute with qualified instructors at an affordable price.
I’d love to hear from you if you have any questions or suggestions. Just leave a comment below.
