SIMPLE Tips for sourcing language specific positions

Here are some quick tips for all you out there that are seeking positions that require fluency in a specific language or languages. Its Simple.

• Source what is closest to you and keep it simple. The local community and government resources are filled with great companies, and diverse talent. Post at the unemployment office, and the local community groups. If you have a local high school, college, or language group---seek them out. Contact the Japanese or Spanish clubs, and ask the professors for national resources, job boards or community organizations more specific to your needs of your job description.
• Investigate and think about the position needs and where the perfect candidate gets their information. If you are an accountant where do you go to get accredited, learn of new IRS regulation, or research an answer? Find it out and then go there, often there are sub groups. Or better yet check the DOL list of companies operating in that native languages country, there may be employees in the US that communicate regularly.
• Make friends, Or Meet UP face to face. Join the social events, email list, or go to local events--its a great way to network, and if you are lucky they may even let you post your roles.
• Participate, and network. I attend the events, and actively read the news letters, authorships, etc...its a great way to grow relationships. I also offer something back through participation or assistance, its community helping community.
• Learn from everyone you meet. Even if a candidate or a company isn't a match, take something away through learning. Every culture is a window to a larger more encompassing YOU, take advantage of it. I once spoke with a taxi driver, and let him know I was looking for Japanese talent. He was from Persia, however, about a week later, I got an email from a candidate that was a perfect fit--he said a taxi driver had my card, and told him he had to speak with me as he was leaving for a trip to Japan, so upon his return the candidate called me.
• Encourage and Enjoy: Take on every assignment, and every sourcing challenge as if you were investigating your next major enjoyment. Enjoy what you do, and do not get discouraged. Keep it simple, learn about the native country of the specific language, retain what you learn as you go, if something fails it is one step closer to success. Encourage others to spread the word, and be Grateful when they do.

Good Luck and Happy Hunting,

Sue