Career Suggestions for Those Talented with Learning New Languages

Career Suggestions for Those Talented with Learning New Languages

Some people simply have a knack for linguistics. These individuals make great translators, interpreters, and linguists. In fact, people with a knack for quickly picking up a new language are more inclined to find jobs than those who do not. Simply glance through online job boards or your local newspaper and notice how many postings ask for bilingual applicants. In fact, the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics has reported that translators alone will experience a 22% increase in available jobs between 2008 and 2018. This is promising news for those who have a natural gift for learning new languages.

If you dream of a job that involves playing with languages, these careers provide a wealth of opportunity that will only grow as international trade increases.
  • Translators: Translators convert the written word from one language to another in a variety of settings. As a professional translator, there are opportunities for self-employment as well as employment with private organizations, businesses, and government. Generally speaking, the best jobs require post-secondary education, specific language training or certification, as well as previous experience. For those just starting out, experience can be gained through internships, private tutoring or translation, or entry level translation jobs that do not require previous experience.
  • Interpreters: Interpreters have essentially the same job as translators. The primary difference being that interpreters translate the spoken word rather than written. Interpreters must convert from one language to another, often in real time. For example, an international business meeting between an English businessman and a colleague from Japan would require an interpreter if both parties do not speak a common language. In some instances, interpreters translate recorded conversations or other audio files. Employment opportunities and requirements are similar to a translator.
  • Linguists: Linguists study the theory of language more so than a particular language. These individuals are especially gifted with finding similar patterns, whether or not they speak the language. These patterns include vocal sounds as well as grammatical patterns. Linguists can find jobs in teaching or research. Teaching jobs can range from voice coaching to elementary school education, from high school foreign languages to post-secondary linguistic education. Research jobs include the etymology of a variety of languages to translating patters in dead languages.
There are wide and varied career choices available for those talented with learning new languages. As more and more countries, corporations, and governments participate in a global economy, the demand for talented translators, interpreters, and linguists will only grow.

-By Adriana Tassini

The following Translator Q & A is part of our Translator FAQ Series.Question:Answer: Learn more:Tags: Career Suggestions for Those Talented with Learning New Languages, Translation Career, Learning New Languages, How to Become a Translator, Learning to Become a Translator, Learning New Languages, Job Opportunity for Translators.