09 December 2012
Does knowledge of french language or any other language help CA? Do you think it might be an added advantage anywhere?
I have been trying to find this but not able to find any connection. I have done A2 level from alliance francaise. and I am doing CA now. I was just thinking will it help if I continue learning my french as well but if it is of no use then I might just forget it.
May be people who have experience of this industry can throw some light on this.
11 December 2012
Hi, Knowing French or any other leading European language definitely makes you more loaded as a professional if you see yourself working with multi-nationals as clients and colleagues especially in Europe or their global strongholds. A complete and proper communication is the most important element for any role or profession. French language skill fills up the gap if you plan to work in France in finance and accounting domain. Alternate geographies could be Global Cities and Cultural hubs like Dubai. You may ponder upon following options / approach to take the way forward:
1. Leading French MNC's (like Areva, Capgemini, Carrefour etc) who may initially hire you in their Indian / Dubai office for Global Finance Operations
2. Roles like Business Analysts, or Reporting functions in KPO's or Global Consolidation - Having French Clients who might just need French lang in addition to CA
3. Leading ERPs like Oracle/SAP have country localizations- they need CA's with Language knowledge for Development and Consulting. (Location could be in India as well for serving the French Localization)
4. Education: Role of Finance and Accounts Faculty in France or in Indian MBA Colleges serving International Students
5. Go through the leading job portals with your skill sets ie "Finance and Accounts with French Language"
One may just enjoy good French Movies without worrying too much about its immediate direct use in Profession. Keeping in touch with both the language and the profession might just pay off in future... say ICAI needs a delegation of experienced finance pros for strategic tie-ups. Knowing the language might just add the zing factor!
11 December 2012
Thank you for your reply. This is the kind of suggestion I was looking for.
This reply motivates me learn french. I believe that it might not help me in the beginning of my career but later it can be of great help as I do want to work with MNC's.