Working as a freelance translator is both a
business and a profession and successful translators make a substantial
investment in three vital areas:
Professional Expertise
Translating needs a high level of expertise
both linguistically and in terms of the subject matter. Your potential
customers whether they are translation companies or direct clients will
naturally expect proof of this. Both degree level qualifications and practical
working experience in relevant fields are important. For example, the
University of Salford offers a Master of Arts Diploma in Advance Studies for
Translation and Interpreting, as do other universities. In the UK, whilst there
is no legal obligation for translators to join a professional body, potential
customers will normally prefer to work with translators who are members of
recognised professional organisations.
Setting up a Business
Freelance translating is a business just like
any other. You must market yourself, invoice clients promptly, collect debts,
pay creditors, do your accounts, take out professional indemnity insurance and
insure your equipment*. This may seem daunting but there is a wealth of help
available - business advice centres, your bank's small business adviser and
books on starting your own business. Use the help, which is there!
Equipment
The minimum acceptable equipment is a PC with
a target language word processing package and, because most work is via the
Internet, broadband connection is essential - as it will provide a more secure
means of sending and receiving large files. Other standard office equipment
such as fax, photocopying and answer phone should also be included within your
office set up.
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