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How Bilingual Talent [Spanish+ English] will change the way we do business

Bilingual [Spanish+ English] talent in today's employment market is today's valuable and strategic asset. Lets look at some of the numbers:

1. Fastest-growing segment in the U.S. [Latinos already are the nation's largest segment]
2. Fastest-growing language in the U.S. [500+ million people worldwide] and the fastest-growing language, after English.
3. Advertising revenues for Spanish-language stations and networks leading the charge. For instance, many of the nation's best-known consumer companies (ex. The Coca Cola Company, The Procter & Gamble Company) have for years started increasing commercials in Spanish
4. "Se habla español"

Growing number of organizations are nailing it down to a science . Organizations see the change in demographics and they are being proactive about it. They recruit bilingual talent that can meet the market demands and promote them to higher levels of responsibility. Take for instance, Seaside U.S. Bank (Oregon) who does understand these market changes and are fulfilling a need. According to the Daily Astorian 8/11/2008, Bilingual teller reaches out to customers, "increasing number of Spanish-speaking residents are flocking to use her [Montes] as a banking resource, trusting her to guide them through the American system." Montes started as a teller, and because of her hardwork, skills, and work ethics was promoted to oversee other tellers resulting in more customers being taken care of. So what is your organization doing to recruit bilingual talent, remain competitive and preparing communities for success? If we think about Number 1-4 and how this applies to building the next generation of workforce, it's something we think of as an investment. What's your take?

Three things to advance your career

First off, take control of your career by organizing your portfolio, and setting clear goals. Sounds simple? If you want to be a physical therapist, then seek out an informational interview w/ a local top health institution by referral or through networking. Have a subject-matter expert review your resume, and cover letter before proceeding. Even after the interview continue refining your quantitative and qualitative skills to ensure your sharp.

Secondly, ensure your name is in peoples mind. The adage 'out of site, out of mind' is quite relevant in today's fast-paced employment environment. A family member once remarked, "dime con quién andas y te diré quién eres" [tell me with whom you walk and I will tell you who you are]. Surround yourself w/ solid people and associates. If its the boss or close co-worker you trust and admire, then study him/her on what great qualities they have and seek self-improvement. Sometimes we learn more from the guy down the hallway w/ no title.

Finally, be aware of the trends. Remember the wise words of Ralph Waldo Emerson, "Big jobs usually go to the men who prove their ability to outgrow small ones." Whether its the local or business media, streamlined over the web, or blogs be attentive on your surroundings, demographic changes, downsizing, high-growth organizations and of course promotions/demotions. Our advice: seek more responsibility in the organization and surpass the expectations.

At BilingualHire, we're listening. What is your organization's challenges for recruiting bilingual [Spanish+ English] talent? What are you doing to prepare for the next career move?

-David

First Client of 2008. Linfield.

First client since returning from an 18 month deployment is The Linfield College, Portland Campus. Are you interested in recruiting and retaining Hispanic and other students from communities underrepresented in nursing through the development of support services and community partnerships? Enjoy working with students? Then consider the Director of Multicultural Programs opening w/ The Linfield College, Portland Campus. Be sure to review the requirements at: http://www.bilingualhireco.com.