GermanLinx :: German and Careers

Bradley Morrison

Brad Morrison I'm currently Site Manager for BASF in Melbourne. I grew up in Mildura with an interest in the world around me.

When finishing my PhD in Chemistry at the University of Sydney, I was offered a post-doctoral fellowship within BASF: one of Germany's three leading chemical companies. After this I was offered a permanent position and decided to stay. When the work environment changed and I had to interact with German speaking colleagues who did not speak English, my German rapidly improved.

In Europe speaking only one language is a distinct disadvantage. Most people speak at least two including their local dialect. Despite this linguistic prowess most prefer to converse in their local dialect and only really open up with those that share their mother tongue. Pfälzisch was difficult to grasp at first, but after six years in Germany, I started picking it up. This helped a lot in managing people, particuarly as I moved into a production role.

Speaking German is also a major advantage in many non-German companies, particularly in the chemical industry, as Germany has a large economy and many companies, like BASF, operate globally. In my current role, communicating in German is still a major part of my job. Although German may not be the only language of communication globally, it is certainly the preferred mode of communication with the headquarters in Ludwigshafen.

Of course not all the benefits of learning German have been work related. I have formed some very strong friendships after six years: something which would never have happened without the benefit of a shared language. Getting to know many aspects of German culture such as singing in a choir, playing football and joining in the many Weinfests can really only be enjoyed fully by being able to communicate well.

My career opportunites within BASF have widened dramatically with the ability to speak German. Naturally I wish I had started earlier as learning a language takes time and effort. Learn German - you never know where it will take you in life!

Email address: 101621.652@compuserve.com
BASF Australia homepage

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