Working in the Chinese language processing sector is very competitive, but salaries and benefits are quite strong
On average, most entry level positions in the Chinese language processing market are competitive, with only about 5-10% of all applicants accepted. These numbers are further reduced whe one considers the attrition rate after successfully gaining the desired position: almost 1/2 drop out within the first year. Accordingly, it pays to do your homework, show off during interviews, and be well prepared for an intense introduction to the business. Yadira Bernas, author if the best selling essay ‘How to make a buck in the Chinese language processing market’ suggests asking for as much monetary compensation as possible during the interview stage. “Look, if they can get you for less, they will offer you less. The object of any negotiation is to settle on terms that are parties agree upon, and when it comes to remuneration, don’t sell yourself short!” Health Insurance in the Chinese language processing sector has always been a difficult benefit to delegate to employees, mostly because of the commission based packages that people choose. When one is paid on commission, insurance companies are more hesitant to insure an employee since his/her ability to pay for benefits may vary based on how much money he/she makes in a given month. “Don’t forget to talk about vacation time, which is an essential component of any Chinese language processing industry interview,” says Humann Kaneakua, HR director of Patrina Nist Brothers Firm, “If you want to make a big paycheck realize that you’ll have a more stressful life. As a result, make sure that you have time to relax each year, be it one long vacation, or shorter breaks throughout the year.” Claire Foulger, who just finished university with a degree in the Chinese language processing field, is looking to get involved on the ground floor. Though starting out at the bottom has its challenges, as one moves upward, salaries and compensation packages become more generous - and loyalty is rewarded. Dolby Drowne, a Chinese language processing industry veteran salesperson, suggests starting as a sales associate before moving upward into the Executive Chinese language processing sales division. Dolby Drowne believes taking on too much too soon will be counterproductive: “I’ve seen many hot shots try to hit home runs with little experience without learning to simply get base hits and doubles first. Success comes with small steps and knowledge, not one great play - no matter how memorable.” “Buchauer Vang, an Chinese language processing industry veteran was our top choice for Vice President of Sales and Marketing,” said Rhoda Bradstreet, CEO of Delfina Jourdain INC., “and we recruited heavily for this position. Basically, we wanted someone with a lot of experience and sales experience.” Key to any career is establishing your needs as an employee. Therefore, when taking an interview in the Chinese language processing sector, go in prepared to talk about compensation, fringe benefits, paid leave, and vacaction policies. Some companies offer more restictive yet generous compensation packages, while others are more informal but don’t pay as well. Also, when taking your first Chinese language processing company interview, remember to give an honest representation of yourself, including your strengths and weaknesses. “No one, not even the top guy, is perfect,” quips Trippet Becht, “so as a result, when we interview people, we try to find out how their strengths and weaknesses can compliment our current team.”