Encouraging Language Learning.
We, at TranslationsInLondon, were fortunate enough to speak to the students at Gumley House School at the start of July.
As part of our initiative, “Let’s fill this town with linguists”, our aim for the presentation was to encourage the students to continue their successful language journey. We emphasized that they are fortunate to have a school that offers excellent language classes, evident from their remarkable GCSE and A-Level scores. Furthermore, we aimed to shed light on the potential career paths available to them in the future and emphasize the skills they would need to achieve their goals. By fostering their passion for languages and guiding them towards diverse opportunities, we hope to inspire a generation of linguists who will contribute to the growth and cultural enrichment of our town.
This push for more second (or more) language learners has become more important as a result in the clear decline in modern foreign languages (MFL) users in the UK. One of the graphs we presented to the students showed that the number of those applying for language GCSE exams in the UK has been dropping consistently and worryingly over the past few years. As a translation company, this is very concerning as it means there is a growing lack of skilled linguists, including translators and interpreters. So, TiL’s aim was to inspire the students to keep up their language learning as it will open many doors in this evermore connected world.
Work for Language Users.
Being a translator or an interpreter is not the only career path for those who master more than one language.
During the presentation, we showcased a wide range of potential job opportunities that the students could aspire to, including translator, interpreter, travel guides, teachers, and diplomats. However, due to our expertise as a translation company, we decided to focus specifically on the skills required to become a translator or interpreter.
To anyone aspiring to become a translator/interpreter, being bilingual or multilingual is not the only skill you need. For example, there has to be a firm understanding of the grammar, vocabulary, idiomatic expressions, and cultural nuances. Without these abilities, not only will the translation itself become difficult, it could result in offence or miscommunication if the execution is not carried out accurately and sensitively.
Freelancing
As part of our initiative, “Let’s fill this town with linguists,” we aimed to familiarize the students with the concept of freelancing, which is a common feature in linguistic-based jobs that they may not have been aware of.
To provide the students with a comprehensive understanding of working with languages, we dedicated a portion of our presentation to highlight the essential soft skills needed to thrive as a freelancer. We emphasized the significance of time management, problem-solving, and cultural awareness in this line of work.
Time management is crucial for freelancers as they often handle multiple projects and clients simultaneously. Being able to prioritize tasks, meet deadlines, and maintain a disciplined work schedule is key to ensuring success and client satisfaction.
Problem-solving skills are equally important in freelance language work. Freelancers often encounter challenges such as difficult translations, cultural nuances, or communication issues. The ability to analyze problems, think critically, and find effective solutions is essential for delivering high-quality work and maintaining client relationships.
Cultural awareness is a vital skill in linguistic-based jobs, particularly for freelancers who work with diverse clients and projects. Understanding and respecting cultural differences, adapting language use accordingly, and avoiding misunderstandings are crucial aspects of delivering accurate and culturally sensitive translations or interpretations.
By introducing these soft skills, we aimed to prepare the students for the realities of freelancing in the language industry. We wanted to ensure that they develop a well-rounded skill set that goes beyond language proficiency, enabling them to excel in their chosen careers and thrive as successful freelance linguists.
Lets Fill this Town with Linguists!
TranslationsInLondon would like to thank Gumley School for allowing us to talk to the students and inspire them to #fillthistownwithlinguists!
Providing good quality translation and interpretation services is a vital skill that cannot be replaced, so we look forward to seeing what the Gumley students and students across the world do with their new or continuing language skills.
If you want to learn more about working with languages take a look at our slides below, or if you know someone who does share this blog with them!
Check out the presentation below!