The Language Show at Olympia

It is Monday morning after a busy weekend at the Language Show, Olympia. I am at my desk awaiting a conference call and have a rare moment to both review and absorb the events of the past three days. Obviously, Brexit gave this language event a particular dimension; equally technological developments and their influence on the language industry was widely discussed, also.

So why is attending such an event important for a professional Polish translator, linguist and content creator? Obviously, it ticks all of the boxes for Continuous Professional Development which is essential for a professional. Indeed, some language industry bodies insist CPD is an essential requirement for more prestigious memberships.

This Language Show focused on presenting in-depth workshops for the sector’s professionals whether linguists, teachers or students; as importantly, it was a showcase for newcomers who wanted to see what was available in this vibrant and dynamic area. As an experienced Polish translator and interpreter I found listening to workshops aimed at aspiring linguists most inspirational and informative. Speakers succeeded in captivating and convincing their audience that languages and the language profession is attractive, lucrative and exciting (and more!).

In addition, the Language Convention was a fantastic way of connecting with other professionals and making enduring professional relationships in an occupation where some individual translators and linguists may feel isolated. I really enjoyed exchanging ideas and knowledge with colleagues from different linguistic backgrounds and from different parts of the UK and across the world.

The ‘linguistic immersion’ offered and facilitated by the convention was outstanding. I witnessed language lessons from Chinese to Gaelic and thus experienced the power and influence of different languages and the experience left a craving for more!

The lack of language service providers was evident and this was the most disappointing aspect of the day because I wanted to make more professional business contacts. Alternately, the translation and interpreting agencies who made it to the show were extremely popular.

Anyone involved in Languages needs to be aware of the industry’s trends, the new opportunities the Languages sector provides and prospective changes that may influence employment prospects. To repeat, the use of technology was both presented well and widely discussed. There are positives: boosting and aiding language teaching and learning as well as its involvement in the process of translation and interpreting.

There were some fears: for example, how would technology impact on the individual linguist, teacher and student who may rely more on the technological innovations than personal linguistic involvement. I agree with some of the speakers in that technology could revolutionise the language sector and change our role from translators and interpreters to IT consultants or limit our profession to the legal or business sectors.  I also agree with the view that our linguists are the great inventors and teachers and who will initiate and promulgate future trends in Languages and the profession.

Brexit was on the agenda. I felt it would have benefitted more from a more open and wide-ranging discussion. The British electorate may be weary of the topic but is also concerned about an uncertain future and which may have an important impact on the Language sector. It was reassuring to see that the largest and brightest stand belonged to the EU demonstrating that its institutions were providing linguistic opportunities and aiming to ensure that Britain is well aware of what they might lose as well as gain. Also, the organisation wanted to communicate that the EU is still open for business, wants the UK to remain part of the European project which was created in the aftermath of the Second World War to prevent conflict and to foster European cooperation.

It was clear that people of all ages and backgrounds who engaged at the EU stand were disappointed at events and desperately wanting to remain in the European club. As the busiest exhibitor it attracted impressive levels of attention from Language Show participants, many of whom are keen on tapping into EU Interpreting and translation opportunities.

Will I return for more next year? You bet! Until then I will be busy working on and improving my  interpreting skills…

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