It’s not a bad idea to study your own language, too. Most people only have an intrinsic understanding of their mother tongue; they can’t verbally explain to you how it works. Get an extrinsic knowledge of your language to better understand how it works and how foreigners approach it.
Work on your writing skills as well. [2] X Research source Many people think that being a translator just means you know two languages. In reality, to be a successful translator, you’ve got to be a good writer, too. In addition to studying your language of choice and your topic of choice, study up on your writing. Just because you can speak the language does not mean you can write it well.
While in school, look for opportunities to perform translation or interpreting work on campus for whomever you can. It is crucial to start early so you can get experience and get recommendations for when you need them later on.
The longer you stay in that country for, the better and better your second language will get. Just make sure you spending your time with locals and not other expats!
Odds are you probably know someone who works in an industry that deals with many different types of people with many different linguistic backgrounds. Ask everyone you know if they could use some free help. Why would they turn you down?
The American Translator’s Association offers generalized certification programs for translators. [5] X Research source If you want to be a judicial or medical translator, organizations such as the National Association of Judiciary Interpreters and Translators and the International Medical Interpreters Association offer specialized certifications in this area. [6] X Research source Check if your state or area has an accreditation programs for translators and interpreters.
The American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages offers many proficiency tests, too. [8] X Research source You can find plenty of tests online offered by other countries, as well.
There are also websites like Verbalizeit and Gengo where you take a test, they assess your skills, and you’re put into a pool of translators that clients come to for work. Once you’re fluent enough and have your resume set, try these sites to supplement your income.
Escort interpreting is an opportunity for inexperienced soon-to-be interpreters to work alongside a more experienced interpreter. Ask any potential employer if they have a shadowing program if you’re interested in speaking, not just writing.
Law firms, police stations, hospitals, government agencies, and language agencies are great places to start. Especially if you’re just beginning, charge decent rates, or if you have some recommendations under your belt will this be easy.
Translators often have an easier time finding work in industries with a particularly high demand for language services, such as court or medical interpreting. It’s wise to have your niche be in one of these areas.
Make sure you’re charging a reasonable price for the times, too. Back in 2008, when the economy wasn’t doing so well, many translators saw a dip in the prices they could charge that people were willing to pay. Make sure your rates match the times, the industry, and your experience. [13] X Research source
Unfortunately, many out sources much prefer to work with the TMs produced by Trados, which is quite expensive. If and when you are able, consider upgrading your software to make work that much easier.
You can see here why it’s doubly important to know the ins and outs of your own language, too. Successful translating is easiest when you’re doing to your native language about a topic you know like the back of your hand.
Always try to expand your field of expertise, but don’t expand it too far. Do you specialize in medical reports on pregnancy, labor, and delivery? Start learning and working on articles devoted to pediatric care. Slowly widen your expanse of knowledge to accompany more related endeavors. You can then spread out from there.
