Knowing a second language is an asset in the job market. Many companies are beginning to reach out to minorities, especially the Hispanic community.

“Many of the Spanish majors here at NIU are aiming toward business administration or business translation,” said Francisco Solares, acting coordinator of the Spanish division. Spanish, as a minor, is only a 30-hour program. Many Spanish minors simply are trying to get better employment within their major. It definitely comes in use. Learning any language is a wonderful way to learn more about yourself.”

According to Employment Projections 2008, the No. 1 occupation ranked by annual job openings is general managers and top executives. The No. 7 job is managers and administrators.

“In jobs that require any type of management or manufacturing skills, Spanish is not only preferred, but desired,” said Ron Short, director of the Career Planning and Placement Center. “Our current president is bilingual. Businesses need employees who can communicate with native Spanish speakers. It is, after all, the fastest growing consumer group in America.”

Angie Adams, desk secretary at Century 21 in DeKalb, said knowing a second language is beneficial.

“There are many viewings that I have had to set up where the viewers didn’t speak English,” Adams said. “No one here knows Spanish, or any second language. I believe if someone did, it would make life a whole lot easier.”

According to the January/February edition of Hispanic Business, the Hispanic purchasing power grew 258 percent in the 1992-2002 decade. The Hispanic work force, in turn, increased 43 percent, reaching 16.4 million people. Hispanics presently account for 11.4 percent of the U.S. Labor force and 9.4 percent of the managerial-professional class.

“Any move that brings more people into my business is a good move,” said Keith Applehanus, manager of the IHOP in Hoffman Estates. “When hiring new hostesses and new waitresses, I’m looking for someone who can communicate with all members of the community. It makes the whole environment of the restaurant more comfortable.”

The sign outside of the Associated Bank of DeKalb, 1325 Sycamore Road, reads: Abra chequera gratis les damos $25. Translated to mean: Open free checking, get $25.

“Two of our employees speak Spanish, and that has helped us to open ourselves up to a whole new customer base,” said David Leifheit, loan specialist at the Associated Bank. “Knowing a second language gives an employee an advantage over those who do not. In fact, the newest financial consultant out in Aurora was hired because he was bilingual.”

Besides the credit courses that are offered here at NIU, Kishwaukee College offers a non-credit course, conversational Spanish. Classes at Kishwaukee started March 12 and run through May 7. For information, call Kishwaukee College at 825-2086.