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Languages Work

The national information resource on careers with languages

Find a job

Recruitment agencies are a good place to start when looking for a job. Click here for a list of agencies that specialise in careers with languages.

In this section, we’ll also we advise you on how to research and find the right organisation. We’ll also point you in the direction of key language recruiters.

General tips

It is not always realistic to expect to use your languages all the time in the UK unless you’re working as a specialist linguist (as a translator or a language teacher, for example). Your CV should therefore include a balance between language skills and other skills, experience and qualifications that may be relevant to the employer. Take care not to over-emphasise pure language knowledge unless you are applying for a specialist language occupation. Instead, show how that language relates to the core business of the company you want to work for.

Even translators and interpreters need to show specialist industry experience and qualifications. It is also well known that employers take on linguists for skills beyond language ability. Remember that languages will have helped to develop skills in general communication, cultural awareness, independence, summarising, proof-reading and many other areas.

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