Fiona
Job title
Freelance Business Language Trainer
Location
West London
Industry sector
Language training
Background
Degree in German and Russian with a year working in Germany.
Used language skills as a press librarian at the International Institute of Strategic Studies and in administration posts for the British Council.
Took a career break to have children.
Studied for Diploma in Translation in spare time.
What does your job involve?
I teach German to British people who want to use the language in their work or on
business in Germany. Normally I teach business clients at their workplace, for example, at a bank or insurance company. Some work comes through language teaching or training agencies that I am registered with, although I rely to a large extent on personal recommendation from people I have taught.
What hours do you work?
It depends on the schedule of my clients. I teach German to one of my business clients twice a week from 8 a.m. to 9.30 a.m. at his office, before he starts work. With some business clients I am contracted to teach for 30 or 40 hours over a period of three or four months. With others I have a less formal arrangement.
What teaching methods do you use?
I adjust the teaching method to the circumstances and the level of understanding of the client. Generally I use books and tapes specifically designed for language for business. I enjoy both – one-to-one sessions can be quite intensive. Groups are probably easier to teach because I can get people working together. The main thing is to keep the teaching session lively and interesting and try to make it fun.
How does business language training differ from other teaching?
Business language needs to include words and phrases relevant to everyday working situations so I incorporate those into the session. People also need help with the cultural aspects of another country. For example, there are definite rules of conduct in German business and society that it’s important to adhere to. I tell them what is and what isn’t expected so that they get an insight into the culture of the country as well as the language. That helps them to be better prepared for business when they get there.
What skills and qualities are required for your job?
Business Language Trainers need:
Confidence
Good presentation and communication skills
Patience
The ability to motivate people and help them realise their potential.
What do you like most about your job?
It is rewarding to feel that you’ve had a hand in helping someone improve some part of their life. Some of the people I’ve taught have become friends. And it’s great to receive a postcard from abroad saying ‘thanks – the teaching really worked!’
Source: Paul Kingston Associates / Connexions