The Challenge
With the integration into the Epassi Group, English skills have emerged as a key competency for the corporate fitness provider. As part of the Finnish organization, Hansefit now collaborates with teams across Finland, Sweden, the Netherlands, England, Poland, and Italy. This makes it essential to improve language skills, not only to foster effective communication but also to cultivate an inclusive environment where every employee can participate fully. Ronny Witte, HR Business Partner at Hansefit, emphasizes, “With the integration into the Epassi Group, it became clear that we needed an effective language learning solution. Previously, business English was a nice-to-have; now it is essential.” The need for a robust language learning solution was particularly evident in the finance and HR departments, which have significant contact with international colleagues.
“Previously, business English was a nice-to-have; now it’s essential.”
Ronny Witte, HR Business Partner, Hansefit
Ronny further explains, “We’re also seeing more and more English-speaking clients in Germany, so it’s also essential for our client-facing teams to improve their English skills.” But it’s not just English that matters at Hansefit; incorporating international employees who want to learn German is also an important aspect.
Why Babbel?
“We have employees across Germany, so we really needed a digital solution that could accommodate that,” Ronny explains. The ability to accommodate different English proficiency levels, along with the opportunity for individual learning and progress tracking, was crucial. “With Babbel, employees can start at their own level and improve their language skills based on their specific needs, including the vocabulary required for their jobs. Additionally, as an HR manager, I appreciate being able to view learning rates and progress.”
Another significant advantage was the excellent customer service and flexibility that Babbel provides. Hansefit opted for a combination of the Babbel app and virtual individual and group lessons to meet the diverse needs of their employees. “We wanted to offer our employees as many options as possible to learn intensively and make quick progress,” Ronny adds. The seamless integration of Single Sign-On was also an important factor in their decision to choose Babbel.
Feedback and Success
The introduction of Babbel for Business has been met with overwhelmingly positive feedback from employees. Ronny reports, “I have received nothing but positive feedback—from usability to transparency to the app’s user experience.” One colleague praised the virtual classes as fantastic, while the HR manager noted that the app actively engaged him in the learning process and encouraged him to skip a few levels based on his abilities.
“Of course, there is a certain pressure for a new learning offering to be well-received. That’s why I’m even more pleased that the team is so enthusiastic.”
Ronny Witte, HR Business Partner, Hansefit
He has already noticed the first signs of progress himself. “Last week, I had a meeting with our international HR team in Poland, and I was able to understand much more in English. That gives me a good feeling and motivates me to continue learning,” the HR manager shares.
Learner Success
Hansefit has also booked a Learner Success Package and collaborates closely with Learner Success Manager Chiara. Ronny notes, “The onboarding sessions in English and German provided us with an excellent start. The employees received comprehensive training, felt well-supported, and are motivated to learn with Babbel.”
“It’s great to have the Learner Success team from Babbel for Business by our side. They support our learners in language learning and help ease the workload for our HR team—a true one-stop solution.”
Ronny Witte, HR Business Partner, Hansefit
Given the high workload in the HR team, it was essential for Hansefit to have someone who understands potential challenges, has experience, and can provide learners with valuable tips on how to learn effectively and stay motivated. With Chiara from Babbel, they have a great partner by their side.
“It’s a pleasure to work with the Hansefit team. The employees are motivated and eager to expand their language skills.”
Chiara Chidini, Learner Success Manager, Babbel for Business
The Learner Success Package includes onboarding sessions, monthly reports, an internal newsletter for learners, and learner roundtables moderated by Babbel language experts. In these regular sessions, participants receive valuable didactic support to enhance their learning success and motivation. The experts address various learning styles and help reduce the fear of making mistakes, ensuring that individual learning goals are successfully achieved. There is also plenty of time for questions and discussion.
Conclusion
With Babbel, corporate fitness provider Hansefit is enhancing the English skills of its employees, supporting a smooth integration into the Epassi Group. The flexible language learning solution allows employees to develop their language abilities in a targeted way, making collaboration with international teams, colleagues, and clients more efficient and enjoyable. The Learner Success team offers additional support to ensure that all employees stay motivated and successful in their learning journey.
