Why Do I Need To Be Able To Speak Chinese To Work In China?
Technically, you don’t have to, but…
If you’ve been an international teacher in China for a while, you will know that having fluency in Mandarin isn’t expected or required for your role. Working as an English teacher, or in bilingual or international schools, means that English proficiency is the standard language requirement. However! Just because it’s not required, it doesn't mean it’s not needed. Many teachers in China will have experienced the confusion and general helplessness that can come with language barriers. Having at least a basic level of Mandarin is really important and extremely useful! Here’s why.
Everyday life
Answering the phone to delivery drivers, ordering food, asking for help - these are all everyday situations you have to navigate through, and a language barrier makes them ten times more difficult. Yes, translation apps are at your fingertips, but being able to have at least a basic understanding and ability to communicate in everyday situations will make everything even easier.
2. Cultural immersion
If you’ve moved to another country to live and work, learning the language will completely transform your experience. It helps to strengthen relationships and opens the door to understanding traditions, humor, and daily life in a way that goes far beyond what’s possible as a visitor or outsider. Consider - is this something you would get the chance to do in your own country? Learning a country’s language whilst you’re living and working there is an amazing experience, don’t let it go to waste!
3. Understanding a learner’s point of view
Taking the place of the student is an excellent way to get an insight and appreciation for your students’ points of view. Being called on in class, put on the spot, struggling with something new are all things we might forget about after being a teacher for a while. Having the chance to go through these situations yourself could be surprisingly beneficial for your teaching practices.
4. Leadership roles might actually require Mandarin speaking skills
(or at least strongly prefer it!)
If you’re looking at leadership roles in China, having some Mandarin proficiency will really set you apart. Being able to communicate with all kinds of people is an essential leadership quality. It’s not always required, but we have come across leadership roles at schools that really value this and will be looking for candidates with this specific skill.
5. Lifelong learning
We talk about lifelong learning for our students, but what about for ourselves? Learning a language is challenging, fun, rewarding, interesting, and useful. Think about how good it will feel when you can ask for directions by yourself and understand the response. Or recognise a Chinese character from your last class. Even learning simply for fun is a great way to challenge yourself and try something new.
6. New skills!
If you want to approach learning Mandarin in a more professional manner, you can take the official HSK exams to clearly demonstrate your level of competency. It’s an addition to your skill set and CV, and presents you as a well-rounded, knowledgeable, and diverse educator.
Speaking Chinese isn’t required to teach in China, but even a little knowledge goes a long way. From simplifying daily life and deepening your cultural experience, to building empathy as a teacher and standing out for leadership roles, learning Mandarin brings both personal and professional rewards. At the very least, it’s a chance to grow, challenge yourself, and embody the same lifelong learning you encourage in your students.
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