Verbal Vs. Sign Language

Posted on April 9, 2013 by Euro London

Language, whether spoken in French, English German or even Tagalog is an amazing cognitive ability in which we (as humans) understand, learn and produce. One of the more amazing discoveries is that even with over 3,000 spoken languages in the world today dozens of similarities in characteristics between each and every language. Language can be defined as a systematic way to convey meaning using symbols and sounds.

Speech is the dominant means of linguistic communication – many people have come to think that language and speech are the same thing due to their similarities. However, Sign Language definitely suggests otherwise. So, why is this? Well, those that belong to Deaf communities create language using manual gestures, but at the same time in doing so their language shares the same design and mechanisms that spoken languages possess.

Research into sign language and verbal language was conducted by Professor Iris Berent at Northeastern University in Boston, Massachusetts to discover the flexibility of the human language. A paper written by Professor Berenet and her team provide evidence that English speakers can easily learn and recognise key structures of American Sign language, even though there have been no previous exposure or familiarity with this language. [1]

American Sign Language is the predominant sign language that is used within the deaf communities in both the United States and also the English speaking areas of Canada. [2] ASL also meets all of the criteria that a language should have, this includes generativity and syntax. Scans of the brain have been taken by researchers; this imaging scan demonstrates that the same areas of the brain that are activated in people who hear spoken language are also activated in deaf individuals when they use sign language.

Surprisingly to many, sign language and spoken language share a number of similar characteristics. Further to the brain activity spoken and sign language both construct words via syllables which are ‘meaningless.’ A research group decided to examine whether or not non signers would be able to discover the structure. The results suggested that participants extended their linguistic knowledge from spoken language to sign language. This finding is significant because it shows that linguistic principles are abstract, and they can apply to both speech and sign.

Can you communicate via sign language, if so what other similarities can you tell us about with regards to verbal language?

[1]http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2013/04/130403200208.htm
[2]http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/American_Sign_Language

Pre-Birth Language Learning

Posted on January 8, 2013 by Euro London

Do you remember when you first began to understand what it was your parents were saying to you? Many of you at this moment in time may mutter a laugh under your breath whilst thinking “Who’s going to remember that?” On the other hand some of you may recite your earliest memory when you think you understood what your parent or someone around you was saying; sorry to break it to you but this moment was almost certainly not it. Astonishing new research suggest that babies begin to learn language skills whilst inside the womb.

It was previously thought that babies were only able to begin understanding language at the age of six months. However a team which was lead by Professor Christine Moon of Pacific Lutheran University conducted research which tested the language understanding skills of new born babies from Tacoma and Stockholm, Sweden.

Professor Moon played recordings of a distinctly American English vowel sound and a Swedish one, and tested the babies’ responses by measuring the one thing a day-old baby is really good at: sucking on a pacifier. The sucking patterns reveal that there is a familiarity between the vowel sounds of their mother tongue at birth, which suggests that careful listening took place in the womb.

Moon commented on his research and said “For them it’s pure sound – they don’t have the ability yet to look at a mouth and see where that sound is coming from. And yet they’re already trying to make sense out of it, and it’s just marvellous.” [1]

Previous studies had also shown similar research of pre birth learning which was that a late-stage foetus can pick up on the musical components of speech, like melody, rhythm and volume. Also similar to this is a popular theory which is known as the Mozart Effect. This theory consists of playing music to babies in the womb and is linked with boosting IQ, improving health and strengthening family ties. Yet another fascinating phenomenon which takes place before child birth even occurs.

[1] http://paktribune.com/news/Babies-start-learning-language-in-the-womb-Study-256304.html

British Idioms – What Do They Mean?

Posted on December 4, 2012 by Euro London

Learning a new language can be fun and exciting, simply down to the sheer thought of knowing that at the end you will know a whole different language. Language learning can also open up a number of opportunities socially, economically and just generally about countries and cultures. (Other benefits can be seen in our previous blog such as ‘Bilingual Children Better At Problem Solving’ – http://www.eurolondon.com/blog/en/bilingual-children-better-at-problem-solving/)

On the other hand it can also be quite an intense experience; from getting to know the different vocabulary to articles used and the grammatical side to a new language. However, it’s not all doom and gloom as when learners are getting to learn the ins and outs of a new language when faced with the difficult grammar and vocabulary – it can be somewhat entertaining and refreshing. Each and every language has a quirky aspect to it and in Britain one of those quirks is idioms.

Idioms are often grammatically incorrect therefore can be quite confusing to non native speakers. If some of the following were taken quite literally it could lead to a lot of confusion for language learners therefore we thought we would share the real meaning behind these bizarre expressions from the English language.

Smell a rat – When someone is suspicious of something and a situation doesn’t feel quite right.

Kill two birds with one stone – This phrase is used when someone can accomplish two things at the same time with one action.

Raining cats and dogs – A classic weather related idiom – meaning that it’s raining a lot, something that is quite typical in Britain.

What’s eating you? – This is a question of concern, not a concern that something is physically nibbling away at you but more emotive when someone feels down or seems to have a lot on their mind.

Bend over backwards – This particular idiom means when a person goes the extra mile to make an effort with something they are involved in.

Have you ever come across any strange idioms when learning a new language? If so let us know.

Why A Recruitment Consultancy Is Better Than Flying Solo.

Posted on October 12, 2012 by Euro London

Technology VS Human Interaction.

Technology, what would we do without it? The vast development of technology has enabled businesses to accomplish what was once considered unthinkable. With travelling being more accessible than it’s ever been, to the invention of the internet; the rise in global technology is allowing businesses to connect at an easier rate than ever. Nevertheless, the power of technology can be lost in value almost instantly in virtual space if you aren’t articulating human interaction alongside it.

As a multilingual recruitment consultancy we liaise with candidates and clients across the world so technology is something we value greatly. However, in saying this it does not detract our attention from having real human interaction. Whether communication is over the telephone, via email or face to face meetings with clients or candidates we as a consultancy can provide it.

There are further downfalls with the rise of technology which is automated services; having to speak to a robot like voice rather than a real person. Recent research from our candidate’s shows that they believe the ‘human touch’ is a necessity in today’s job market rather than CV’s collecting dust virtually online. If recruitment consultancies articulate the balance of technology and human interaction everyone (businesses and applicants) can benefit. Further to this consultancies can (particularly in the on going economic crisis) be a great asset to companies and candidates looking for the right person to hire. In August 2012 Eurostat estimates that 25.466 million men and women in the EU-27, of whom 18.196 million in the euro area (EA-17), were unemployed. [1] With the current economic crisis employment rates are at their highest in Europe making it very difficult to find a job. It could be argued that with the help of consultancies unemployment rates could drop as recruiters can filter the right candidates with the skills and attributes needed for job positions while the business hiring can focus on the interview process.

Top tips when working with a recruitment consultancy; be truthful about your experiences, credentials, income, career goals and reasons for leaving your prior employment.

[1] http://epp.eurostat.ec.europa.eu/statistics_explained/index.php/Unemployment_statistics

CV Spelling Mishaps

Posted on August 16, 2011 by Steve Shacklock

Here at Euro London we applaud Kent’s mystery spelling superhero, dubbed ‘Grammar Man’ in a recent article. Ok, so he may have a loose grasp of capital letters but his campaign to correct the bad spelling and grammar of Kent’s graffiti is nothing less than admirable. On a similar theme, and following on from our blog Spelling Faux Pas, we wanted to bring you the funniest, silliest and most bizarre bad spellings that we could find.

Our main sources for misspellings were the many CVs sent into our offices everyday. Although candidates know that their applications are going to be scrutinised, spelling slip ups still manage to sneak their way in.

Here’s one way to make a bad impression – a candidate once boasted of ruining the sales department as opposed to running the sales department, proof that one letter can drastically change the meaning of a well-intentioned sentence. Another claimed celery reasons as the rather novel explanation for why she could not accept a job role –she must have had her weekly food shop on her mind. The list goes on, with one of the most common mistakes being costumer services instead of customer services. If an applicant is unable to spell their own job title, it is a definite way to set alarm bells ringing regarding their employability.

So here is some advice for when you’re sending off your next CV…

Firstly, please don’t rely on your phonetic understanding of language to determine its spelling – this can only lead to spelling disasters such as qcumber instead of cucumber and noledg instead of knowledge. Not only is it confusing to read but it can also undermine any claim made to fluency in English and good attention to detail.

Instead, use a reliable English dictionary to verify all spellings or grab a friend to proof read your written work. Often having someone to take a fresh look can uncover mistakes you may have overlooked. Sticking to these principles should help you avoid any spelling set backs and ensure your CV makes the best first impression.

Looking for a job opportunity that will utilise your language skills? Then visit our website www.eurolondon.com for all our vacancies. Just remember to proof read that CV!

What better reason to learn French – to win the X Factor of course!

Posted on August 2, 2011 by Steve Shacklock

When we came across this story at Euro London, we couldn’t help but read on. A British student winning the French X Factor?! It sounds absurd, but Matthew Raymond-Barker touched the European nation’s hearts with his renditions of pop classics in the native language. Although admitting being less than perfect at the language when he arrived in the country, with the X Factor winner’s crown at stake Matthew quickly found his fluency with French.

The story is a perfect example of how language learning can open up opportunities that you may never have dreamt possible. Ok, this is a rather exceptional example but nonetheless illustrates that you do not need to let language be a barrier to your ambitions.

Learning a language may just be the X Factor you need to find your dream job!

The complete guide to INTERVIEWS

Posted on July 26, 2011 by Steve Shacklock

A potential Ikea interview?

An important part of the service at Euro London is preparing our candidates for the interview process – a prospect that strikes fear into many and leaves others running for the door! By talking candidates through possible interview questions, as well as giving them tips on how to make a positive impression, we aim to make our candidates feel confident to tackle the real thing.

After all, interviews should be viewed as the perfect opportunity to show off your personality and make a positive impact.

Follow these simple tips and you may be one step closer to bagging your dream job…

Appearance – You’ve heard it all before, but it’s true! First impressions count. So, make sure to dress professionally. If you are unsure about the company’s dress code, always verge on the side of caution. After all, it is better to be too smart rather than too casual.

Timing – Set that alarm and find that watch, because being on time is essential. It may sound simple but lateness is the quickest way into the interviewer’s bad books. Plan your journey and familiarise yourself with the location to ensure that you arrive promptly. If a situation arises in which being late is inevitable, remember to keep the interviewer informed.

Research – Just like the well known Scout motto, always be prepared. Take time before the interview to research the company as much as possible. Information can range from the business’s main competitors to their core company values. The more clued up you are the better. Doing your homework will also highlight your enthusiasm and interest in the company, which can only be a good thing.

Mobile – Turn off your phone. It may seem simple but here at Euro London we’ve come across our fair share of interviews interrupted by bleeping mobiles.

Listen – Take time to consider your answers. Pacing yourself demonstrates thought and control, qualities the interviewer will value over rushed and confused answers. Keep information relevant and ask if you do not understand the question – this is particularly applicable if not being interviewed in your mother tongue.

Questions – Always ask questions. An interview is a two way process; not only is it an opportunity for the interviewer to find out about you but also for you to gain information about them and the available role. Being inquisitive demonstrates a thirst for knowledge as well as an interest in the role.

Finally, remember to stay positive and do your best!

What could your language degree do for you?

Posted on July 13, 2011 by Steve Shacklock

This article will be part of a series of blogs focusing on language graduate employment.

Here at Euro London, we often encounter students who are unaware of the career opportunities available to language graduates – with many perceiving translation or teaching as the only options to utilise their language skill. We aim to dispell this myth!

Although a career in translation is a viable option for many multilingual individuals, it only represents a small minority of the employment opportunities available. We deal with companies that want multilingual individuals for a diverse range of sectors, recruiting professionals with languages into banking, office support, igaming, HR, marketing, sales, IT and customer service – proof that languages are a valuable commodity within a wide range of careers!

While a language will not always be advertised as essential to a role, it can be advantageous to an employer. In particular, languages provide an important means of communication to businesses with overseas clients. Within international businesses it is also increasingly expected to trade in the buyer’s language, therefore fueling the need for those with language skills.

So whether you wish to to be in HR or PR, an accountant or an actuary, your language may have a niche value. Taking a look at these broader options will enlighten you to the alternative career choices that your language degree could hold!

Don’t forget to check out next week’s blog for ways that you can add value to your language degree…

5 easy ways to make sure your language skills don’t go rusty

Posted on March 30, 2011 by Steve Shacklock

If you’re a multilingual jobseeker, your language skills are your bread and butter. In a competitive market, particularly with many bilingual and multilingual graduates out of work, it’s important that, if you’re not a native speaker of your chosen language, you keep your skills as honed as possible.

With that in mind, we’ve come up with five effortless ways to make sure you stay on top of your language skills!

1. Stop watching films in English (unless, of course, you’re not a native English speaker!) – watch some European cinema instead! Even if you’re watching an English film, change the audio track to your second language. Doing this a couple of times a week is an easy way to immerse yourself in the sound of the language without being in the country.

2. Talk to your friends! For example, if German is your second language, keep up the regular conversations with native German-speaking friends. Ask them to point out any mistakes and make a note of them at the end of the conversation.

3. Read a book or a magazine in your second language. Doing this will give you the time to pause and check on any grammar or vocabulary you’re not sure of.

4. Learn a new word every day – even native English speakers feel the need to increase their English vocabulary so why not do the same with a second language? The more articulate you are, the greater the edge you have over other candidates.

5. Play games! Sites like Sporcle are great resources for language quizzes for those times you feel like brushing up (and competing against yourself).

Keeping yourself at the top of your game doesn’t have to be a big effort, nor does it have to change anything about your regular routine, apart from the soundtrack!

The top five reasons to learn a second language

Posted on March 22, 2011 by Steve Shacklock

With English fast becoming a global language, and certainly the language of business, many people have taken on the attitude that it’s unnecessary to learn a second language. After all, if everyone speaks English, who needs to make the effort?

Here at Euro London Appointments, we seriously disagree! We are always talking about how language skills can increase your employability but that’s not the only reason why language skills are beneficial. Here are the other top five reasons you should learn a second language:

1. Studies have shown that being bilingual actually structurally changes the brain and increases intellect, especially for people who have been bilingual from an early age. Therefore bilingual people are more likely to have a rounded intelligence than monolinguals.

2. Language is not just about semantics. Having access to a language means having access to another culture and coming to truly understand it. This is great for business as different cultures have different ways of doing things and makes you more desirable to potential employers!

3. Knowing a second language increases your knowledge of the English language. Many non-native English speakers are sticklers for grammar – the same goes for language students. Learning a language from scratch makes you more aware of your native language’s grammatical structures.

4. Language skills get you into university. Some UK universities are now rejecting applicants without at least a GCSE in another language. Degrees are generally a path to a better job, therefore learning a language is a ticket to a better career!

5. Last, but by no means least, learning a language widens your appreciation of art, cinema, travel, music and the list goes on. By learning another language, you’re giving yourself access to a whole world of culture and art that you may have never experienced!

So don’t rely on the language skills of others. Take matters into your own hand, learn a language and open lots of new doors!