Manufacturing
Manufacturing is a sector which is affected more than most by globalisation: not only does it rely heavily on export sales, but its raw materials are frequently sourced overseas. Add to that, international takeovers and mergers, the trend towards outsourcing and the logistics of global supply chains and you can see how valuable the ability to speak another language might be in this business. In a sector where businesses often have to find new markets overseas in order to survive, languages help support the drive for increased export sales and a survey in 2003 found that a very wide range of languages are needed. It also found that there is a dearth of language skills amongst sales, secretarial and technical staff, all of whom need to communicate with international suppliers, clients or business partners. Cultural skills too are highly valued: the ability to understand the subtleties of foreign customers’ needs is crucial. So having a language alongside a technical qualification could be a winning mix!
Links
SEMTA (Sector Skills Council for Science, Engineering and Manufacturing Technologies)
Office sales manager, Gripple Ltd
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You can also find information on the manufacturing 14-19 diploma, posters and postcards and online activities. |