GPS Appears in The Washington Post

The intrigue and allure of discovering new parts of the world is one reason many people list travel at the top of their bucket lists. It is also huge draw for career opportunities, especially for millennials entering the workforce seeking adventure and new challenges with global companies.

And even for those who don’t seek positions abroad, the demand for international competencies at all firms is growing. According to U.S. Census data, one in three U.S. mid- and large-size companies have international operations or serve multilingual clientele. Job candidates can set themselves apart by showcasing the global assets they bring to the table.

One big way to demonstrate cultural awareness is by taking the time to learn another language, said Taveau, who speaks six languages. Knowing another language will differentiate you from your colleagues and the cognitive benefits are also quite good, said panelist Kirsten Brecht Baker, chief executive of search firm Global Professional Search. Lisa K. Hunt, executive vice president of international services and special business development at Charles Schwab & Co., conceded that not speaking Mandarin has impaired her ability to build relationships with partners in China. “If you have language skills and understand your firm’s business, that makes you invaluable,” Hunt said. “Even if you just learn a couple of key words and phrases to use in social situations, it goes a long way.”

Continue reading on The Washington Post …

Compliments of Global Professional Search – a member of the EACCNY