I Want to be a Professional Translator! Where Do I Begin? 1

Here is a core-base to do list.

Update your CV

• Include skills and experiences that might not seem relevant to you as a translator. They could be relevant for a potential client.

  (Example: I worked in the school system for many years, and a potential client is aware that I have experience working with children. You never know!)

• Stay honest and brief. Leave extensive details for later when they contact you. This also helps build a rapport, and the potential customer will be able to determine if you are a right “fit” for their needs.
• Remember to keep a fresh list of references. 3 contacts is great but 6-8 is better. Let your contacts know you are using their information as a reference. They will be flattered and more willing to give a positive impression of you to potential customers.

Offer samples for Free. Exposure will pay and pay again later.

• Use a generic text (news excerpts, survey content, free online books, instructions, manual content, script conversations) and translate them.
• Do several styles, subject, and concepts. This is practice to you and “experience, skill, style” for your clients. (If asked for a sample, you already have some available!)
• Post your samples on a blog, website, group, etc

Market to yourself

How much do you want to get paid for what?

• Have a clear list that you can refer to. Reflect services, fees, items, extras. (I use a template that I can update as my needs /my clients needs change)
• Add to your CV if possible.

Those are the main ingredients: CV, samples, rates.

So, what do you do with this? Join, post and network. Repeat every week!

Join

• Translators/Interpreters associations in your area/country. It will give you credibility .
• Discussion groups. Share your concerns, ideas, or experiences.
• List your services in online & offline directories.

  NOTE: Save some money for joining: Sometimes joining is free. Use your discretion. You are a valuable investment that will pay off.

Post

Anywhere, everywhere, everyday if possible. (NO SPAM)

• Use discussion boards, classifieds, weblink pages, blogs, vlogs, emails… if it is in print, you want it seen! Be sensible as to where you are posting and ALWAYS follow proper Netizen Net-tiquette. You want to be sought after, not thought of as a spammer.

Network

• Use your references! Make them aware that you are a professional with a vital service to offer.
• Friends and family are your best source for networking. There is always someone who knows someone-who needs YOU!
• Business cards: Leave them with ANYONE you talk to on an everyday basis. You will be surprised to find out who needs you, but you will know how they heard from you.
• Attend social/business/corporate/public events! This one is a jewel and cannot be missed!

Now go out there and get started!