Have you ever heard the expression “play to your strengths?” Then you may have wondered, “What are my strengths and how can I play to them?” An even better question would be, “Who should I play these strengths to and how?” We’re speaking to the international job seekers in the US market because we want to share a very important message: you have both an amazing advantage and disadvantage in this competitive market, but you must play to your strengths.

Before going straight to the practicals, let’s look at some encouraging data for those who do not speak English as a first language. “Nine out of ten international recruiters believe the ability to speak another language is ‘critical to success.” [“Talking World Class: The Impact of Language Skills on the UK Economy,” The National Centre for Languages ] According to the Chief Learning Manager of Deutsche Bank, “Multilingualism is an indicator of general mental ability and an internationalist outlook.” The shifting global workforce demographic is no secret and linguistic ability is hot! The fact that you speak more than one language is the good news.

In your job search, seek where your linguistic skills might be leveraged. Look at the specific job qualifications, the percentage of internationals working at a particular firm, specific multinational companies, diversity statements on the company site, and at whole industries where speaking more than one language is in high demand.

Now for the not so good news– which really depends more on what you will DO about it.

Strong written and verbal communication skills are a necessity for almost any job you find in the U.S. today. What are typically meant by these skills are professional writing ability, strong presentation skills, meeting management and participation, negotiation, and interpersonal engagement among others. When it comes down to the last 2-3 candidates for the job (often possessing the best technical skills), hiring managers will often first let go of the candidate possessing more mediocre communication skills. They may ask such questions as: “How would he do overall at meetings? Would he participate, be vocal, and advocate for ideas?” If the recruiter has decided “No” based on your performance at the interview, what your references had to say, or what your whole professional package (resume/CV, cover letter, dress, LinkedIn and other social media profile pages, the way you shook hands, your eye contact, etc.) conveyed, then this is indeed the “bad news” that you should start seriously thinking about changing.

Professional communication skills are tremendously important to companies—do not rely solely on your technical strengths and certifications to get your foot in the door, get you the job, then get you the promotion. This has seen its day of discouragement and disillusionment. At a time where many are vying for the same jobs, do not give the hiring firm an excuse to disqualify your cover letter or use your communication skills as deciding factor against your candidacy. Decide now to get your professional communication skills evaluated and decide whether some training is in order, whether it be a one-workshop commitment or a long-term communication coach to complement your own efforts or those of the executive search consultancy.

Not sure if you have the time or funds for this? Here are two things to consider:

1. Like all education, professional development costs are an investment. If you’re serious about success, personal improvement is an ongoing process that will continue well into your career. If you’ve gotten clear feedback that your language and communication skills might be to blame, it’s time to invest more earnestly in your best asset—yourself.
2. Be upfront with the recruiter or hiring manager. If your next interview is tomorrow, in all likelihood you’ll not have the chance to get polished in these areas. Explain the advantage of your multilingualism and tie it specifically to the job (if indeed it can be). Then, be prepared to give examples of your commitment to professional development now, such as through a Toastmasters membership, or enrollment in a managerial writing course. Do not go to great lengths to point out an inadequacy—simply point to the positive things you are doing. Showing your commitment is far better than winging it and hoping they didn’t notice.

Now is not the time to cross your fingers and hope for the best. Please let us know how we can help. Post your comments and questions or shoot us an e-mail: info@springboardsltc.com.