To ensure the highest quality translation, you should only accept translations into your original language and have a minimum of expertise on the subject you are going to deal with.
This will give you every chance to get the freelance translator job you want, but also to set your prices at the highest.
Unlike interpreting translator work (for example on television or during a conference), the translation of a text can be done at home.
Companies transmit the texts to be translated by email, so you can even practice your
profession in the country of your choice. For example, an American who has a minimum
of knowledge in French can offer his services of translator in France, while living in
the United States.
To become a good freelance translator
Step 1: Start by registering with an agency
It is best to start by registering in an agency. You will be able to forge a translator experience for
one or two years, discover the market, and make you an agenda of potential customers.
At the beginning we will only give you simple texts to translate, then with experience you will
have complicated and technical texts.
Control your level to progress each month. When your level is sufficient, you can at that
moment become a confirmed freelance translator.
Step 2: The alternative options
If you cannot find a paid job, then start with volunteer work. With this kind of work, you will
cumulate an experience to put in your CV, and you will be able to determine your level as
a translator. Charity organizations like the Red Cross, clinics with free care programs,
UNESCO and many others are constantly looking for unpaid translators.
Step 3: Find your own customers
When your level of translation is sufficient, you will be in a good position to solicit your own
clients. It is even possible to spend your work as a translator employee on a part-time basis,
while starting your freelance activity.
This will ensure you a minimum of income each month.
It is strongly advised at this stage to inform your employer of your approach. This will avoid
conflicts of interest.
To find your customers the best strategy and send your resume to companies working
internationally and government institutions.
To find these contacts, a simple search in Google will give you dozens of answers, targeting
the area that interests you, for example medical translation.
Step 4: Earn your freedom
When you have about 20 hours of work per week as a freelancer, you will be able to stop your
work contract with your employer in translation and start working for good.
In 20 hours it is normal to earn as much as a translator hired full-time in a company.
If you cannot find a paid job, then start with volunteer work. With this kind of work, you will
cumulate an experience to put in your CV, and you will be able to determine your level as
a translator. Charity organizations like the Red Cross, clinics with free care programs,
UNESCO and many others are constantly looking for unpaid translators.
Step 3: Find your own customers
When your level of translation is sufficient, you will be in a good position to solicit your own
clients. It is even possible to spend your work as a translator employee on a part-time basis,
while starting your freelance activity.
This will ensure you a minimum of income each month.
It is strongly advised at this stage to inform your employer of your approach. This will avoid
conflicts of interest.
To find your customers the best strategy and send your resume to companies working
internationally and government institutions.
To find these contacts, a simple search in Google will give you dozens of answers, targeting
the area that interests you, for example medical translation.
Step 4: Earn your freedom
When you have about 20 hours of work per week as a freelancer, you will be able to stop your
work contract with your employer in translation and start working for good.
In 20 hours it is normal to earn as much as a translator hired full-time in a company.
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