The Linguist

The Linguist 57,1 – February/March 2018

The Linguist is a languages magazine for professional linguists, translators, interpreters, language professionals, language teachers, trainers, students and academics with articles on translation, interpreting, business, government, technology

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30 The Linguist Vol/57 No/1 2018 www.ciol.org.uk INSTITUTE MATTERS "Chartered Institute of Linguists, how can I help?" If you contacted the membership team, it was probably my voice you heard answering your query. I joined CIOL in June 2016 when the membership side of the Institute was going through some major changes: updating the membership criteria, and introducing new grades and an online application process. It was also a busy time, as we were about to start the renewal campaign. My responsibilities include providing support and guidance over the phone and by email. I also assist with the assessment of every membership application we receive. I have to make sure that we have all the relevant information to assess the application, such as copies of qualifications, CVs and personal statements. It's a non-stop process, as we receive new applications on a weekly basis. At the time of writing, I'm dealing with 43 applications for different grades. There is a lot to take into account. Some applications can be straightforward, but others can be challenging due to a lack of information or because the applicant has not understand the process. I get the opportunity to read impressive applications from people with interesting careers. But all of them have one thing in common: a passion for languages, which I share. I started learning foreign languages at a very early age, so when the time came I knew Happy to help CIOL MEMBERSHIP OFFICER YOLANNA LAMAR CORDOVÉS ON WHY SHE IS PROUD TO BE PART OF THE TEAM SUPPORTING MEMBERS exactly what I wanted to study at university. In 2005, I graduated with a degree in French and English from the University of Havana. Since then, I have been working with languages in one way or another: as a tutor back in Cuba, and in London as a Foreign Editions Executive at Usborne Publishing and now Membership Officer at CIOL. One of the things I enjoy most about my role is attending events, such as the Language Show, Members' Day and those organised by the divisions. It is here I can put a face to the voice on the end of the phone, or to the name in a recent application. It is also an opportunity to get some useful feedback. This is the first time I have worked in the membership sector, and engagement and recruitment are areas that interest me. We are working continuously to get all new members involved in what CIOL is doing, especially Student and IoLET Affiliates, as they are our future teachers, interpreters and translators. I am involved in setting up recruitment campaigns, monitoring them and analysing the results. At a time when learning languages is being undervalued, getting involved with a professional body that supports linguists is more crucial than ever. It is very satisfying when we see members from pre-professional grades getting their certificates, associates moving into full membership and members adding new languages or chartership to their profile, further enhancing their CV. I am proud to be a member of our small but dedicated team. We are constantly thinking about how we can add more value to your membership and how you can make the most of your benefits. We have achieved great things, with CIOL membership increasing to 7,000 in 2017. But there is still a lot to do and we need you for that; we welcome any feedback, good or bad – it's the only way to grow and improve. Well, now you know who is answering your queries, who's helping you with the renewal of your membership, who sent that email confirming that you are an MCIL, who read your application and got back to you asking for more information or a supporting document, or who advised you to apply to be Career Affiliate after passing the Diploma in Translation. I look forward to talking to you at one of our events and, of course, if you need help with your membership, please do not hesitate to contact me; I'll be happy to help. © CHRIS CHRISTODOULOU

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