Event Details

EFFECTIVE STRATEGIES FOR HIRING

NON-ENGLISH SPEEKING EMPLOYEES

In this session, we will discuss best practices for hiring employees who don’t speak English well. Our presenters have worked with many companies over the years who have employed immigrants, refugees, and others who don’t speak English well. They have heard many of the employers' concerns, fears, frustrations, and challenges. Having also worked closely with the non-English speaking community, the bring a unique perspective to the table.

Based Laure & Kathy's experience and the experience of many employers, the know that hiring from this population adds strength to a workforce. Immigrants and refugees are known as hard-working, dedicated employees, especially when they are treated well. The diversity they bring to the table benefits the rest of the workforce as well.

For companies who haven’t yet hired individuals who don’t speak English well, this presentation will give them strategies and practical ways to prepare. Having things set up before hiring someone who doesn't speak English, increases the chances of success for everyone. For companies who already employ non-English speaking individuals, our speakers will provide practical ways to improve company culture and employee engagement.

This session will discuss:

• The benefits and limitations of translation

• The importance of cultural awareness

• Essential training for supervisors and managers

• Practical ways to offer Workplace ES

L classes

• Appropriate language and phrases

Speakers:  Laurie Dawkins & Cathy Martin, co-Founders of Workplace Talent Solutions

Laurie Dawkins, co-founder, is the director of our strategic partnerships. She has over 30 years of professional experience in the fields of adult education and business. At the heart of what she does, is the desire to see people learn, grow, and advance in their careers using their gifts and strengths. She believes that lifelong learning is the key to career advancement both personally and for others. Prior to joining Workplace Talent Solutions, Laurie enjoyed an 18-year career in banking and 15 years working for a non-profit in the field of adult education where she designed and implemented all aspects of an employer workplace literacy program.

She presently resides in Reading with her husband of 40 plus years. And last but not least, she is Nana to 8 (soon to be nine) amazing grandchildren who do a great job of keeping her on the move.

Cathy Martin, co-founder, oversees the operations of the business. She has worked in adult education for over 15 years. She is dedicated to equipping others with the education and training they need to succeed and grow, especially those who face barriers. She has a degree in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages and has taught English as a second language since the start of her career, both in the community and in the corporate environment. She also spent some time training ESL instructors and working as a freelance instructional designer. Her love of organization and efficiency accompanied by her experience in teaching non-native English speakers gives her a special ability to explain things clearly and understandably.

She is married to her high school sweetheart and they enjoy the challenge of raising two small children. Together, they spend their free time working on their fixer-upper home and camping whenever they can.

Meeting Details

• 7:00-7:30am - check-in and networking

• 7:30-8:00am - breakfast, general meeting 

• 8:00-approx. 9:00am - presentation

• Cost is $23 for members and $25 for guests.  Breakfast is included.

• Check made payable to SHRM Berks Chapter is preferred but cash is also accepted.  Can pay at the meeting or mail check to PO Box 55, Temple PA 19560. Email Wendy Button for online credit card payment option.

• Pre-registration of members and guests is required by emailing Wendy Button by midnight on November 7th.

• Cancelations of registrations must be received by midnight November 7th to avoid invoice for fee.

• Members registering guests must be in attendance at meeting.

• Berkshire Country Club is business casual dress code.  No jeans or shorts, please.

• Note:  Photographs of attendees may be taken during the session to be posted on the chapter's website and/or social media platforms.  If you do not consent to being photographed, please let us know ahead of time.