What’s a second language worth? Or rather, what does a second (or third) language pay? In a sense, it really depends. The languages you’re able to speak might be high paying, while others will only take you that far up the professional ladder. But regardless of what the salaries look like, learning another language can open up an abundance of career possibilities.
In this post, we’ll take a closer look at some of the coolest jobs available to people that speak multiple languages.
Tutor
If you speak a language other than English, it only makes sense to try and teach that other language to people. Not only as a way of earning an income but also for the sake of preserving that language and extending its reach.
Thanks to technological advances, you can now teach or tutor from anywhere in the world and reach more students than ever before. If the idea of working when and where you want appeals to you, you should definitely consider a role in online language teaching.
Interpreter
You can deploy your bilingual skills to help bridge the language barrier between two people, facilitating communication between them. Interpreters are responsible for bridging languages so that two foreigners from different countries can understand each other and come to an agreement.
Although the role can sometimes be very intense and demanding (think along the lines of interpreting a high-profile court case), it can also be one of the most rewarding careers in languages. There’s nothing like the feeling of helping limited English proficiency patients get the medical care they need in American hospitals through your language skills.
Translator
If you’re not exactly keen on working with people, translations might be your ideal fit as it’s not a client-facing role and can be done remotely. Translators also don’t work with spoken languages but rather deal with the written text of the language services industry.
In general, translators translate from a second language into their native tongue. Unlike interpreters who can often be seen on stages and in booths at big events, translators work behind the scenes, converting words, thoughts, and intent from one language to another.
Customer Service Agent
So, this might not be a foreign language job per se, but it is definitely worth mentioning. Knowing a foreign language is one of the many important customer care job skills because there’s a rising demand for multilingual talent in every kind of customer care out there. It makes sense to see if the languages you speak are in demand.
These days, knowing a second or third language is enough to get you ahead in just about any job that involves talking to customers. Obviously, certain languages will get you further than others, but the fact that you speak another language will put you in a league where not many others contend. Plus, it looks great on your resume, and many companies prefer bilingual or multilingual applicants over monolingual talent.
Localization Manager
Localization managers have some of the most exciting jobs within the language services industry. They’re in charge of managing suppliers, keeping up with stakeholder expectations, and providing stellar content for the global markets.
These professionals ensure that all translated content is localized, so it’s understood on a native level in the target market. They’re also responsible for recruiting translators and give linguists working under them a thorough brief on cultural nuances, backgrounds, and taboos so content can be created and delivered in a way that doesn’t offend anyone.
Dreaming of a Language Job?
If you’ve got impeccable language skills and consider yourself to be at near-native level in a second (or third) language, the language services industry could very well become your forever career home.
Day Translations is founded on the principles of hard work, professionalism, formality, and respect. We actively celebrate culture and aim to bring peace and respect to the world through our language services. If this sounds like the place for you, please contact us today and tell us why we need you on our team!