Resource Centre

Welcome to our resource centre, full of information, articles and blogs on language training around the world.

online language classes
January 24, 2024

Remote working presents employers and employees with new opportunities that could benefit businesses as much as employees, as well as offer the chance to practise a new language. Here, we evaluate the benefits of remote working and how language learning could factor in.

online one-on-one classes
January 17, 2024

The ability to speak more than one language is incredibly useful for driving expansion and minimising miscommunication in today’s global business network. Businesses continue to innovate and expand, and learning a second or third language can be instrumental in increasing your reach overseas.

January 10, 2024

Whether you’re learning a new language for travel, work, or personal growth, honing your listening skills will enable you to understand spoken language and engage effectively in a range of forums. In this article, we present seven dynamic tips to help you enhance your listening comprehension in any language.

new year 2024 resolution image
January 5, 2024

What do you want to improve in 2024? How about choosing a resolution this year that will be fun, sociable and open doors to new experiences and work opportunities? How about choosing to learn a new language?

london bridge from above
December 12, 2023

The following guide looks at how to prove you meet the English language requirement for UK immigration visa applications as well as everything you need to know about the secure English language test (SELT.)

hello in different languages
December 7, 2023

From South Africa to Brazil, I often greet my colleagues with the phrases they have taught me. Despite its obvious and occasional challenges, there are several perks that come with working in a multicultural team.

brainstorming during a study session
November 29, 2023

Celebrate cultural differences as a source of strength and creativity, and see how quickly your teams are able to overcome misunderstanding and conflict.

american football field
November 22, 2023

If you’re heading to any of the 2024 Six Nations fixtures and need to learn a language fast of the country you’re visiting, you’re in the right place.

November 14, 2023

In this article, we look at when your language-learning strategy may benefit from a rethink. If you operate internationally, have a global network or rely on overseas engagement, then more than one language may be necessary to ensure your business thrives.

spanish flag
November 6, 2023

In this guide, we’ll give you some ideas and resources to help you on your way with your Spanish learning journey, with everything from Spanish words to their rich culture! Let’s get started!

Industries Where Language Skills Increase Employability
November 2, 2023

Learning a second or third language has many benefits in both your working and personal life. From mastering multitasking, to improving decision making and problem solving, language learning is a sure-fire route to personal development. And, as a bonus, it is fun and sociable along the way!

woman reading an english book
October 31, 2023

In this guide, we’ll explore why the English language is the most widely spoken language and the countries that speak English as a first or official language!

October 26, 2023

In this article, we consider these questions in more detail, looking at the pros and cons of learning two languages at a time. But first, we look at an even more important question that will help you understand your reasons for wanting to try learning two languages at once.

Five Reasons to Learn Spanish
October 19, 2023

Spanish is one of the most widely spoken languages in the world, and is the most popular second language for Brits as we love to holiday and even retire there. Spanish is also the language of business in many countries in South America, not to mention being the second most spoken language in the United States.

Day Of The Dead celebration mexico
October 17, 2023

In this guide, we’ll explore the traditions of the Day of the Dead.

October 12, 2023

In today’s fast-paced and interconnected business landscape, effective communication plays a pivotal role in the success of any organisation. As companies expand their operations globally, the significance of Business English proficiency becomes increasingly evident.

Language Training for Businesses to Retain and Attract Employees
October 6, 2023

Language learning also improves the brain’s ability to maintain concentration and block out irrelevant distractions. At the same time, switching between languages also improves multi–tasking skills.

woman reading an english book
October 4, 2023

Let’s delve in a bit deeper and understand how this affects the way we learn language skills and English vocabulary.

September 28, 2023

In this article, we look into the distinct nature of the Ukrainian language and why learning Ukrainian may be a way to both support the Ukrainian people now and in the future.

September 21, 2023

Each year, the British Council’s Language Trends survey asks schools about language learning and teaching for primary and secondary school-age children across England. In February and March 2023, the British Council conducted its latest survey.

using books as study resources in language studies
September 15, 2023

Learning a new language is often a goal that arises over time – we intend to learn a language for a country we want to travel to or work in, or perhaps we aspire to learn a language we share with new family members or colleagues.

diwali in india
September 13, 2023

Take a look at Simon & Simon’s guide to Diwali wishes in Hindi below!

August 16, 2023

Arabic is one of the most spoken languages in the world – and the language of a diverse range of countries that have many similarities but also a number of differences. It is the language of a part of the world that is full of culture, creativity and history – plus, it is the home of some of the wonders of the modern and ancient world, such as the Great Pyramid of Giza in Egypt and the historic site Petra in Jordan.

August 16, 2023

For many people around the world, evocative, passionate Spanish is the first of the romance languages that springs to mind. Maybe it is because it is so widespread – as well as Spain (Europe), Spanish is the predominant language in numerous countries in Central and South America, and Spanish is even spoken in the Philippines and Equatorial Guinea, as well as the Spanish Canary Islands off the coast of Africa.

learning arabic for business simon and simon
August 10, 2023

At Simon and Simon, we recognise the power of effective communication during your travels, which is why we’ve curated a list of ten essential Arabic words that every adventurous traveller should master. Beyond enriching your cultural experience, these words can significantly enhance your travel experience, bridging cultural gaps and fostering connections with locals.

Someone learning a language with a child
July 28, 2023

In today’s globalised business landscape, fostering a language learning culture within an organisation has become essential for success. A multilingual workforce not only enhances communication but also promotes cultural understanding and opens new avenues for growth and innovation.

July 27, 2023

If English is your native language but you’re ready to take the linguistic leap into another language, here are some of the easiest (and best) languages to learn!

learn spanish textbooks
July 5, 2023

If you’ve always wanted to learn Spanish, you’re not alone. Every day, tens of millions of people study it all across the world. And it makes sense! Spanish is a beautiful language with complex meanings and a long linguistic history.

person learning english from a textbook
June 29, 2023

Our language experts have put together this guide on how to learn English step-by-step, to help you on your way with your English language skills. Read today!

June 8, 2023

Stressing the importance of the function and meaning of words, is not only crucial in translation, but in teaching as well. For the purpose of this article only, the translator and language or translation tutor are referred to as language users, unless specified differently.

June 7, 2023

In this guide, we’ll be covering how long it takes to learn this beautiful language and how you can give your Spanish language skills a boost so you’ll be conversing with native speakers in no time!

April 24, 2023

We’ve compiled a list of the most common workplace English expressions and useful phrases in this post, along with explanations and examples so you can improve your speaking skills and thrive in the workplace!

March 10, 2023

Are you heading to the iconic Stade de France and hoping to learn French before the big event begins? Here’s how you can learn French quickly for the French Rugby World cup!

the Eiffel tower
February 3, 2023

French is one of the few languages that is taught in every country’s educational system. It’s one of the most studied foreign languages in the world, so it’s understandable that you’d want to learn it.

workplace meeting
January 16, 2023

This blog will discuss how language can shape the workplace, including issues such as cultural differences, language barriers and how to effectively communicate.

two women talking about business
December 21, 2022

Any organisation must have effective communication if it is to achieve its goals and have positive working relationships with both internal stakeholders and external clients. In order to communicate across cultures, language is crucial. It permeates every area of a global corporation and enables business owners to take advantage of a completely new range of options.

using books as study resources in language studies
November 9, 2022

Any foreign language you learn can help you in both your professional and personal life, but some are more crucial than others.

Someone learning a language with a child
November 9, 2022

Want to learn a new language but don’t know where to start? Our language specialists are here to help by answering the question: what should I learn first when learning a language?

intensive language learning schedule
October 19, 2022

In this article, we thought we’d go into a bit more detail about the best intensive language learning schedule – and how you can create one that works for you or your company!

Laptop and books on desk
September 28, 2022

Intensive language courses can be a great way to learn a new language swiftly and effectively. However, it can be difficult to know where to start, especially if you have a large team that needs to learn a language fast.

learning a language fast simon and simon
September 14, 2022

If you’re interested in learning a foreign language, especially with a tight deadline, you may be wondering: how can I learn this new language fast?

translation service costs
August 3, 2022

While translation services definitely have their place in the international business world, their costs can also add up over time, especially if you use them frequently.

Someone touching a small globe
July 7, 2022

There are many reasons why having a good command of the language you’re speaking is important in business. Read the rest of our insightful guide to discover them.

Someone touching a small globe
May 20, 2022

As a modern business owner, it is important to be aware of the potential cultural barriers to communication that may exist within your company. By understanding and recognizing these barriers, you can take steps to overcome them and ensure that your business runs smoothly and efficiently.

international business country flags
April 25, 2022

Different cultures can present different challenges when it comes to communication in the workplace. Even within the same company, employees may have different first languages and cultural backgrounds. This can lead to misunderstandings and miscommunication, without the right business communication skills and practices in place.

People in busy city
April 19, 2022

Cross-cultural training is becoming increasingly popular as organisations expand their global reach. But what does cross-cultural training look like in action? What are some key cross-cultural training examples that might help your organisation?

cross cultural training session in action
March 23, 2022

As international markets become more and more competitive, cross-cultural training for businesses is becoming increasingly important. Cross-cultural training helps to bridge the cultural divide and allows businesses to operate more effectively in an international market.

international business communication simon and simon
March 22, 2022

International business communication has become increasingly important in the ever-connected world. Whether you are working with a colleague from another country or trying to do business with a client on the other side of the globe, effective communication is key.

giraffes
March 1, 2022

Depending on what part of the British Isles you do the most business with – from the East End of London to the Yorkshire Dales – you may encounter some surprising new dialects full of unfamiliar terms. Local English dialects can reveal some of the most fascinating turns of phrase – the kind that can deepen your cultural understanding of different regions. However, they may also confuse English language learners in particular, especially if it starts to feel like you are learning several languages at once! In this article, we eavesdrop on a few of the most common dialects in the UK.

People walking
February 22, 2022

Great cross-cultural communication and understanding is crucial in today’s global market. Not only does it open up new possibilities and opportunities for individuals, but it can provide a major competitive advantage in the workplace by allowing individuals to better manage diverse teams, work more effectively with international colleagues, and encourage harmony between different cultures.