Ever tried replying to a client email while a toddler demands a snack? Or squeezing in a translation project between school pickups and bedtime stories? Parenting is a demanding job in its own right. Being a freelance translator and a…
Rush translation projects are a challenge many freelancers face. With tight deadlines, high pressure, and the need for impeccable quality, managing these projects can feel overwhelming. But managing rush translation projects doesn’t have to be a nightmare. With the right…
Like many translators, I didn’t plan to be a freelance translator. I happened to start making money with translation, and over time became confident about making it a profession. As a downside of this unplanned career move, I made some…
Even the most experienced translators can make mistakes. Here are some common errors to be aware of: 1. Not Following Instructions If your project comes with a style guide or specific instructions, follow them. If you fail to follow specific…
If you want to be a freelance translator, or if you’re already working as one, learning more about translation can really help. It makes you better at your job, earns you more trust from clients, and allows you to make…
Ever Googled yourself? Imagine a potential client doing the same—what do they find? A good website can help you show how good you are at translating. It can also help you find new clients and make people trust you as…
The flexibility of translating freelance is blissful. But maintaining a work-life balance is challenging. Unpredictable income can cause stress. Like the old fisherman in Hemingway’s novel The Old Man and the Sea, freelance translators often find themselves in a waiting…
Knowing how much to charge is not a challenge only new translators face, seasoned freelancers struggle with pricing their translation services as well. If you set your prices too high, you are at risk of not getting many clients. If…
Feedback is a vital part of the translation process. When delivered respectfully and constructively, it not only enhances the quality of translations but also fosters professional growth and collaboration. In this article, we’ll explore the importance of feedback in translation,…
Collaborating with a translation agency can offer freelance translators many opportunities. However, while some agencies provide great prospects, others may exploit translators with low rates, delayed payments, or unethical practices. How can you spot a problematic agency early? This guide…
What if your words could change the world? Imagine translating a crisis response manual that helps aid workers save lives, localizing an online course that gives students access to free education, or adapting legal documents that help refugees find safety.…
A-Language It is the first language you learn, like the one you speak at home. It’s a fancy way to refer to your native language or mother tongue. So, if you’re born in Nepal, your A-language is Nepalese. A strong…
Humanitarian translation goes beyond words—it saves lives. Translators working in crisis zones or humanitarian settings must uphold fundamental ethical standards. Like all humanitarian workers, translators too must uphold the four core humanitarian principles: These four core humanitarian principles serve as…
Jobs in translation industry forecast
What if language barriers no longer existed? That would be a world where critical information, legal aid, and humanitarian efforts reached everyone, regardless of language. This is no utopia—rather, it’s a reality that volunteer translators help create. By offering your…
As a freelance translator, you know the struggle of balancing productivity with the flexibility and independence of your work. It’s easy to get sidetracked by distractions or overwhelmed by deadlines. But don’t worry, you’re not alone. In this article, I…
Missing a deadline is stressful, especially for freelance translators. While you never want it to happen, it’s not entirely avoidable. Even the most reliable translators can face unexpected situations leading to delays. However, missing a deadline isn’t always unreasonable. That’s…
Freelance translation is a rewarding yet competitive field, especially when it comes to securing work from established translation agencies. Whether you’re new to the industry or a seasoned pro, understanding how to effectively approach agencies can make a significant difference…
Do you want to work for a client only to find out they cannot or are not willing to pay you? No one wants to work for a non-paying client at random. Still sometimes we as freelance translators face non-payment.…
Katharina Reiss’ text type theory is a fundamental concept in translation studies. It categorizes texts into four types—informative, expressive, operative, and audio-medial—each requiring a distinct translation approach. But how does this theory apply in real-world translation projects? And why is…
Finding consistent translation jobs is a crucial step for any aspiring freelance translator. This can also be a daunting challenge for new freelance translators. There are numerous platforms available to connect with clients and launch your career. This article explores…
When I started my translation career, despite some early success, I struggled to find consistent work in the first year. In fact, I still experience sporadic periods of drought each year. And this is normal, at least for some language…
Should you accept a translation test? The answer can vary depending on whether you are looking for a freelance or an in-house role. A translation test is often a must in an in-house translation position recruitment. To stay in the…
What does it take to become a professional translator? A degree? Experience? I’ve been working as a translator for years, and I’m always curious about how others got into the field. This article explores the educational requirements to start as…
