Few posts in the commercial sector are advertised with a foreign language as an essential requirement, but it will often be regarded as an asset. In dealings with overseas clients, it is increasingly expected that communications will be in the buyer’s language. You need to demonstrate a range of skills, including commercial awareness, communication and organisation. Research companies and exploit any opportunity to use your language skills once you are employed. Marketing and sellingLook for job titles such as export sales assistant/manager, or for companies with overseas clients. You may be based in the UK, but you are likely to have regular contact with overseas clients and, at more senior levels, you may travel abroad. Also see sales executive and marketing executive. back to top Purchasing and buyingMany companies source raw materials, components and equipment globally, contacting suppliers to obtain quotations, negotiate prices and draft contracts. See industrial buyer and retail buyer. back to top Conference, exhibition, and event organisingMany organisations run international conferences. Planning trade fairs and other promotional events is also a growth area. See event organiser and conference centre manager for further information. back to top Secretarial workBilingual administrators combine secretarial and language skills to interpret, translate or summarise information. High-level secretarial skills are as important as your language ability. back to top BankingSome major banking groups have a branch network overseas and assist trade across national boundaries. Investment banks with international interests are based mainly in Britain, Europe, the USA and Japan. Specialist departments work to invest the bank’s funds in international ventures. back to top LawWhilst law firms consider language skills an asset, they will, of course, be looking for legal skills and qualifications. Larger law firms, particularly those in the City, are international, with offices throughout the world. They employ translators and interpreters as necessary, but staff with language skills may be in a better position to deal with international cases or get overseas postings. For more information on becoming a lawyer, see law. back to top Patents and trademarksPatent examiners need a scientific, technical or engineering background. It is sometimes useful to know European languages at a conversational level. The European Patent Office (EPO), requires a good knowledge of at least two of the official EU languages (English, French and German). Patent agents, who apply for the granting of patents, may find French or German useful. Also see patent examiner and patent attorney. back to top AccountancyLarge accountancy firms audit and advise clients with international businesses, which may require accountants to audit the company’s business and transactions in all its foreign locations. In the public sector, the The National Audit Office (NAO), is responsible for the audit of the Diplomatic Service, including its embassies and high commissions. back to top InsuranceMany larger insurance companies have overseas departments. Initially, graduates are likely to be taking professional exams and gaining a breadth of experience but, after this, overseas postings are a realistic option. Much overseas business is reinsurance, to prevent crippling claims for damages following earthquakes and other disasters all falling on one company. Larger firms of insurance brokers advise on and arrange insurance worldwide. See professional services, banking and finance for further details.
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