The challenge
As a Canadian-influenced sport, many ice hockey terms originate from English, making it also the Kölner Haie’s language of choice on the rink and beyond. On the one hand, this means that German-speaking players need a strong command of English. On the other hand, it’s important for the Kölner Haie to offer their international players an opportunity to learn German, so they can integrate and feel more at home in Germany. The organization’s employees, too, must be fluent in Business English to facilitate effective communication and provide comprehensive administrative assistance to the players. That’s why the Kölner Haie sought a language learning program that required minimal organizational effort while offering maximum flexibility for the learners.
Why Babbel?
With Babbel Professional, the Kölner Haie have found a language learning solution that meets all their needs: Offering a centralized digital platform to both access and manage the language courses, flexible choice of learning languages and levels, and high-quality content that’s effective and enjoyable.
Whether on the app or the computer, learners use the Babbel platform to practice their new language in short, 15-minute lessons that fit into their busy schedule and are ideal to make a long bus ride, for instance, a little shorter. With learning topics relevant to everyday life, they can use their new language skills right away at work and in their spare time.
“People enjoy the fact that you can “The experience on the app translates extremely well into the real world.”
Jonathan Matsumoto, Ice Hockey Player for Kölner Haiereview your previous learning. Going backward and forwards helps to build a good foundation of the new language.”
In addition to the main languages of German and English, Kölner Haie employees also benefit from learning other languages. One employee, for example, uses Babbel to brush up on the Spanish she studied at school and much appreciates the corporate benefit.
The Kölner Haie don’t only enjoy competing on the ice, but also in language learning, using small challenges to make learning more fun and keep everyone motivated.
“Especially in our job, where we have a lot to do and have unpredictable working hours, the advantage of Babbel is that we can use it whenever we want.”
Celia Schweigel, Partnerships & Key Account Manager for the Kölner Haie
Conclusion
Developing and diversifying language skills isn’t just about communicating on an operational level. Language development is a key soft skill, helping to strengthen interpersonal relations and build trust and respect between colleagues from different cultural backgrounds. As this example shows, learning a new language can be a decisive factor in advancing your career. Babbel is a user-friendly and effective corporate benefit in employee development and is helping employees work across countries and collaborate as one.
