Apps that help you master a new language

Being bilingual in today's crowded job market can be extremely beneficial. It gives you that competitive edge when searching for new opportunities. Language skills are considered among the top eight skills required in all occupations-no matter your sector or skill level. Employers will be seeking professionals who can communicate fluently with customers in overseas markets, as well as serve and sell to the substantial foreign-born population here at home. Here are some of the best language learning apps to help you learn a language at your own pace:

Duolingo

Duolingo is the perfect example of a straightforward language app. All you need to do is set up your profile, choose your target language, set your weekly goals and you're set to go! The app integrates new vocabulary with images and grammar points. Duolingo gives you the option to redo all your lessons, irrespective of your previous scores or 'lingots'. It recognizes that language learners need to stay motivated to make sure they engage in the app regularly.  Best of all, Duolingo is not aimed solely at an English native speaker. For each language, there are specific courses aimed at those with different first languages.

HelloTalk

Particularly aimed to facilitate speaking practice and eliminate the potential stress of real-life conversations, this app will make sure you don't get lost in translation. HelloTalk connects you directly with native speakers, providing an interface to text and speak with them, all from your smartphone. The app also features an integrated translation system to help you overcome your language barrier. If you're using Hellotalk's voice recognition system, you can record your speech and the app will convert that to text and send it to your language partner.

Pro tip: If you run out of vocabulary, with the help of the app's new feature, you can exchange doodles and unleash your inner artist as well.

Memrise

With the help of Memrise, you can learn languages through spaced repetition and mnemonics. The courses are often paired with memes and designed to playfully help you remember the vocabulary. The app incorporates questions and quizzes, so it's not just another flashcard app. One of the best features of Memrise is the app using short videos to show how native speakers express different phrases in their daily conversation. It also helps you spot patterns in the language of your choice to make it easier for you to improve your skills.