Thinking of a career in localization?
Are you looking for a career that constantly challenges you? One that gives you a sense of purpose? A career in localization might just be what you’re looking for. Just take a look at this recent video of SDL’s translators explaining what they love most about being a translator. No doubt you’ll agree that their passion and enthusiasm for what they do shines through. Connecting cultures and people – through the power of language – is a highly rewarding experience. Few professions can truly compete.
The SDL Campus, which works with universities worldwide, helps graduates take their first steps into the industry. Almost all interns at SDL have come through the SDL Campus, and it gives us great pride to know that we’re helping to cultivate the industry’s future talent. One of the most common questions we’ve been asked over the years is how to do well in an interview. Often it’s a graduate’s first interview. Of course, it can be daunting, but the truth is to be yourself, demonstrate your passion, and your thirst to learn. We thought we’d share some of our top interview tips for anyone looking to join SDL, or this exciting industry.
Be prepared. Be unique. Be yourself.
Understand their business
How much do you know about your potential employer’s business? How many offices do they have? Who are their customers? What do they stand for? We will not expect you to understand everything about our business all at once, but we want you to demonstrate that you are curious and eager to learn.Understand the job
Tell them you want this job, how it fits your personal goals, and what qualities you can bring to the role. Study the job description and explain why you want this role. What unique skills do you bring to it? Think through your work experience and interests and how they will help you succeed. Don’t be shy too – if you have a particular quality or skills, share it!Reflect on your strengths and growth areas
As part of our recruitment process we look for individuals who are open, ambitious, driven, and passionate about what they do. Demonstrate your interest in the company and your motivation to gain personal development and acknowledge your strengths. And don’t be afraid to acknowledge your weaknesses.Think about your skills and achievements
List your achievements and activities such as university societies, interests and hobbies, internships or work placements, and volunteer work. Describe the skills you gained and how you made use of them in different situations. Make sure you share examples of how you made a difference.Stay calm and take your time
It’s natural to be nervous, but if you’re inclined to react with fear it could negatively impact your performance. Prepare for the interview and plan in advance to overcome your fears as best you can. Ask a friend to quiz you, practice what you want to say, so that when you’re in the interview it’s not the first time you’re expressing yourself. Remember that it’s fine to pause and gather your thoughts before replying, and if you’re unsure about a question it’s also fine to ask for clarification.Be curious and ask questions
Ricki Ravnsbæk
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