Beatrice
Job title
Senior Policy Adviser
Organisation
DTI (European Fast Stream)
Industry sector
Civil Service
Background
MSt. European Literature (Russian), New College, Oxford
BA Hon. Russian Studies, University College London
French and German studied at school, used on exchanges
Continued with German as a minor subject at University, and now studies at work
What are your main responsibilities at work, and how do languages come into play?
I provide policy advice and assistance in negotiating and implementing European legislation in the field of energy markets. I get to use my French and German fairly frequently. This includes amongst other things: calling up the Commission; reading French or German suggestions for additions to the text during Council negotiations; reading MEPs' reports or amendments and justifications, which often take as much as ten days to get translated; reading European industry comments/reports etc.
How have languages helped you to get on?
It meant that I was eligible for the European Fast Stream, and has always impressed employers. They seem to respect and even admire my language ability. On a daily basis, I now work on European issues and legislation with fellow Europeans. Although the EU translates most things, knowing other languages means that you can have a higher level of understanding of other Member States' approaches - when you learn a language, you also learn about a culture and a mindset, both directly (by being taught it) and by getting into the way of thinking that is particular to each language.
What other skills and experience have you found useful in your career?
My languages have taught me empathy, open-mindedness, an appreciation rather than a fear of difference, and the ability to get on with people from all over the world, and indeed with people of different backgrounds in the UK. I also frequently used my experiences abroad when filling out application forms, since it provides evidence of adaptability and those qualities listed above. I am also endlessly curious, which helps in any job, and I love words. Plus, people think that linguists have an attention to detail, good memory and logical thinking – because of all that grammar and vocabulary we have to learn!
Any tips?
To get on in my field, you need to be quick to learn, diligent, able to survive well under
pressure even when you are not entirely sure of yourself, be confident, but not arrogant or bossy, and exercise good judgement. Very importantly, you need to be a good communicator, both in writing and orally. Practice your languages, but don't see languages alone as being a passport to a job as a European Fast Streamer. You need to get good marks across the board.