Hello, I’m Marjorie, an international tourism marketer with a passion for promoting Scotland. I hold an MSc with Distinction in Tourism Marketing Management from Strathclyde Business School, as well as a First-Class BA (Hons) in Spanish and French with International Study.
At VisitScotland, I lead market development activity across Australia, India and the Middle East. My role involves supporting sustainable economic growth by inspiring more visitors from these important international markets to Scotland. I work closely with in-market stakeholders, support the development of connectivity and help Scottish tourism businesses expand their international reach.
What languages have you learned?
I studied French and German at school, completing Highers in both, before going on to study French and Spanish at university. During my degree, I had the opportunity to live and work in Spain. My year abroad not only strengthened my language skills but also allowed me to experience another culture and way of life.
How have any language skills helped you in your work?
Communicating in another language offers a different perspective on how a destination should be presented to a particular audience. It has also helped me build relationships with international colleagues and stakeholders. For example, I represented VisitScotland at FITUR in Madrid, one of the world’s largest travel trade events, where I supported key conversations in Spanish with travel intermediaries, including online travel agencies and airlines.
What benefits do you think language skills bring?
Language skills bring so many benefits. Communicating with someone in their own language is amazing but the value extends far beyond conversation alone.
Learning a language encourages curiosity and helps you see the world from different perspectives. It builds cultural awareness and encourages you to become comfortable with adapting and learning as you go. Languages have also strengthened skills that I use every day, including problem solving, adaptability and communication.
Do you have any advice for anyone considering learning a language?
Try to make the language part of your everyday life, rather than something you practise only in a classroom environment. Listen to music, watch films and tv (subtitles on!) follow social media accounts, read about subjects that interest you or find opportunities to speak with native speakers. There’s so much content out there including language learning apps that than you can easily tap into in bitesize chunks to make it more manageable for you.
Any tips on how best to approach communicating in a language you have little knowledge of?
Be patient with yourself and don’t let a fear of making mistakes hold you back. Learn a few useful words and phrases, listen carefully, and use visual cues or gestures. Most people genuinely appreciate the effort you are making to communicate in their language even if your pronunciation or grammar is not perfect.
In your experience, would you say cultural awareness is important?
Cultural awareness is just as important as language ability, particularly when working across international markets. Taking time to understand local customs and communication styles is not only really fun and interesting but will be well received by others. This will help you communicate with greater sensitivity and develop meaningful relationships.
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