When you're looking for any type of job it's great to have those additional skills that might set you apart from the rest of the pack. Throughout most of Canada being bilingual would certainly fall into this category. You definitely will not find that the majority of resumes Vancouver to Halifax based include this training to the point where the applicant is fluent. But here in Montreal and the rest of Quebec it is required even for people in many entry-level positions to be able to communicate in both English and French. Here are some of the main careers where being bilingual is required and some tips on training if you're interested in learning a second language.

If you're applying to work with a government office in Montreal than you will definitely need to be able to do your job in both of the country's native languages. One day you may be dealing with a former Oakville airport limo driver who has just moved to the area and needs a Quebec license and a Montreal native who speaks little English. Someone working in a position like this will need to be able to move seamlessly between the two dialects.

Retail is another industry where you will be dealing with many customers using both languages. While you will encounter some specialty stores selling organic baby bedding or food items, for example, where the owners only work in one language most larger operations will require that you be able to help anyone that comes through the door. While you will likely not need to be as fluent as you would working for the government, you will definitely need to be able to articulate yourself well enough to be understood by all shoppers.

There are many businesses throughout Quebec and Ontario that have relationships with clients and other business services that work in both languages. If you're applying to an Avaya IP office you might be working primarily in English but anyone dealing with outside representatives will need to be able to speak French. Even if you're not going to be the main source of communication to outsiders, if you're not bilingual you should make sure in advance that this will not hinder your work.

Telemarketing or phone customer service is another industry that frequently requires bilingual workers. These companies can reduce telecom expenses if they can hire one employee that can speak to both types of customers. If you're interested in becoming bilingual to improve your chances to find work in Montreal you should consider signing up for a night class or taking an intensive summer program. Both can get you what you need to survive in any work situation.