UK executives in danger of missing out on top jobs

Citation

(2000), "UK executives in danger of missing out on top jobs", Journal of Management Development, Vol. 19 No. 1. https://doi.org/10.1108/jmd.2000.02619aab.004

UK executives in danger of missing out on top jobs

UK executives in danger of missing out on top jobs

UK senior executives face the real prospect of missing out on the best jobs in Europe unless they improve their language skills and embrace the idea of an integrated European economy, according to Anita Katla, a consultant with Hays Executive International Search and Selection.

"The job market is becoming increasingly global and the prospect of relocation within top companies is more of an issue now than it ever has been. The most senior executive positions will quite simply not be available to people who are unfamiliar with other cultures and are unable to speak more than one language", explained Anita.

However, it seems that language is not the only barrier, as there is apparently still an underlying belief that the UK is the heart of the European economy which leads to an unhealthy "them and us" relationship. "Not only can most people in continental Europe speak more than one language, their outlook to people from other countries tends to be more open. These people are more likely to build relationships with other colleagues and deal with fellow Europeans more effectively. The economy is without doubt a global phenomenon. Though there are some exceptions, my main concern is that unless many people in the UK sit up and take notice, their ability to get the best jobs will be seriously affected", added Anita.