Here are practical ways for managers to promote the use of Icelandic within the company
Tourism in Iceland has grown rapidly and attracts visitors and staff from all over the world. By promoting the use of Icelandic in tourism, we not only preserve the unique treasure inherent in the language, but we also improve the guest experience and contribute to validation within the company.
Icelandic, with its historical roots and cultural significance, is an important part of the nation's heritage and identity.
Create a language policy
It is a good idea to implement clear guidelines and define actions for the use of Icelandic in the workplace. A language policy template can be accessed on the Skills Centre's digital workspace.
1
Support and encourage staff to learn Icelandic
Encourage employees to enroll in Icelandic courses and be flexible in allowing employees to attend, at least partially, Icelandic courses during working hours. Assist with funding and access to courses and participate in community language projects. Good guidance is available on attin.is regarding educational grants.
2
Use digital solutions
Encourage staff to utilize technology to promote the use of Icelandic, for example through translation programs, dictionaries, apps and other tools to support communication in Icelandic.
3
Create a language mentor system
Pairing Icelandic-speaking employees with those who are learning the language is a good way to support the use of Icelandic in the workplace. This creates a positive culture in the work environment and promotes inclusion. Tourism companies in a specific area could also come together and form a joint support network for Icelandic. The Icelandic Village provides advice on support networks in the workplace and the Give Icelandic a Chance project can also provide good ideas.
4
Inform foreign staff
Make sure that new staff receive information about courses in Icelandic as part of the welcome process for new recruits.
5
Visible Icelandic
Make sure that Icelandic is prominent in all printed materials and on company signs. For example, it would be possible to have a word or phrase of the day in Icelandic visible to staff and guests. Glossaries accessible in common areas.
6
Encouragement to use Icelandic
Praise and give recognition to staff who use and support the use of Icelandic in communication with guests and colleagues.
7
Communication with customers
Encourage staff to greet and communicate with guests in Icelandic first and switch to another language if/when needed.
8
Follow Icelandic media
Encourage staff to follow Icelandic media such as newspapers/online media, literature, radio and television to improve their language skills, understand current events and connect with local culture.
9
Dare to make demands
Make requirements for minimum skills in Icelandic for certain jobs within the company. (eg reception and other direct services to guests or suppliers).
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