Talent in Two Languages Can Boost Your Career Value
Posted in Career Education
In Montgomery County, Ala., when Spanish-speaking people come to the Probate Office to renew their car tags, many ask for one clerk only. Her name is Christie Vasquez.
Comfortable to Speak With
Vasquez came up with one explanation for this. "They feel more comfortable with people who speak their language," said the Auburn University student, who is studying to become a teacher of English as second language.
At work, Vazquez often is called on to help communicate with Spanish-speaking customers throughout the probate department. Sometimes her help is sought after even outside the Probate Office. Medical offices have also asked her for help on occasion. This only proves that people who speak another language are in demand in the workplace.
Making yourself valuable by learning another language
The country is getting more and more diverse, and as it continues to do so, businesses are responding to both employees and customers who do not speak English. In today's tough job market, you have to keep abreast and be an asset to your employer. Sure, learning another language takes time. It also may not be easiest career-development move you can make, but it may be one of the most useful.
Walt Hines, who spent 30 years in the Air Force, including stints in Spain and Latin America, and holds a doctorate in educational administration. He teaches introductory Spanish at a Montgomery, Ala., technical college said "Folks who are bilingual are going to be much more employable than those who speak just one language".
In the workplace
You do not necessarily have to be really fluent in your other language. a few classes can teach people enough to be helpful in the workplace.
To site an example:
Walt Hines is in the businesses of acquainting people with the Spanish language, giving them enough information to pronounce words correctly and to greet Spanish-speaking employees and customers.
"One of the things that we addressed in a course at Sylvest Farms was how to write instructional signs in Spanish, such as, 'When entering this area, wear your earplugs.' The folks at Sylvest Farms learned how to pronounce the words, how to accent the words.
The folks at Sylvest Farms learned how to pronounce the words, how to accent the words. They process chickens out there, and they needed to know what to call the different parts of the chicken. The course was tailored for their particular line of work," said Hines.
Jim Jones, director of human resources at Sylvest Farms, said Spanish-language training" certainly helps on the job. But from a human resources standpoint, it means you can say a few greetings to people who speak very little English or no English at all. They just light up like a Christmas tree when you speak to them in their native language."
