This is why Compass Group Norway is investing in language skills

Last year, Compass invested approximately 600,000 kroner in Norwegian language training for its employees. The goal is to continue this initiative.

– That says it all about the need, says Tone Hartviksen, sustainability manager at Compass Group Norway.

Since 2018, Compass has partnered with Briga on language and skills development. Over the years, around 1,000 employees have participated in Norwegian language training and job-specific courses.

– Most of the participants are already good at their jobs. What the Norwegian course gives them is the opportunity to function better in their daily lives, understand the society around them, and communicate more confidently with colleagues, customers, and managers, says Tone.

Foto: Compass Group Norway

Murtaaz Butt at Briga believes the need for Norwegian language training remains high.

– The need for Norwegian language training has not diminished. On the contrary, we see that the need is at least as great as before, and in some areas, it’s increasing. That’s why it’s especially important that employers like Compass choose to take responsibility when public programs become harder to access, says Murtaaz.

– Now I feel confident speaking Norwegian at work

For Adrian and Sophie at SIXA, the course has made a tangible difference. Both wanted to feel more confident using Norwegian—both with colleagues and customers.

– I’ve learned a lot. Now I understand more, and I feel confident speaking Norwegian with my colleagues, says Adrian.

He works as a sous chef and wants to continue his career growth at Compass.

– I want to become a cafeteria manager one day. To do that, I need to know the language. Norwegian is important if I’m going to take the next step.

Sophie also highlights communication as one of the most important benefits.

– I want to continue improving my Norwegian. The better I get, the easier it will be to communicate with customers and coworkers.

Site Manager Knut Lie also sees the impact from a leadership perspective.

Foto: Compass Group Norway

– It boosts motivation, increases employees’ self-confidence, and contributes to much better communication in the workplace. This paves the way for both stronger collaboration and greater inclusion, he says.

Language Opens Doors

Currently, seven groups are enrolled in general Norwegian language classes, while two groups are taking vocational courses for cleaning staff and cooks. The goal is to ensure that language does not become a barrier to staying in a job or advancing in one’s career.

For Adrian, the desire to continue is certainly clear.

– Are there more courses? he asks with a smile.

For Compass, the initiative is precisely about giving more people that opportunity.

– It’s about giving people the opportunity to grow, participate fully in the workforce, and build a more secure future. That’s why we’re continuing our efforts, says Tone.