There exist quite a few resources on freelance translator tips out there. Even though some existing tips are applicable across the board, every author’s content and experience are unique and so is their readership or target audience. In the paragraphs below, I am sharing those tips and best practices that have worked for me as a French-English freelance translator. My assumption is that you already possess the necessary translator training, skills and techniques including:
Formal education or training in translation or linguistics
Native proficiency level in your target language (s) (excellent grammar, writing and vocabulary skills)
Reading and comprehension skills in your source language (s)
Cultural knowledge in both source and target languages
Good computer and word processing knowledge
Proven experience as a translator: on the job, volunteering, practice tests...
The following tips and tools have greatly contributed to my success as a freelance translator:
Having an office or a dedicated work-space
Investing in essential hardware. Click here for a list of recommended hardware
Having a business plan, budgeting and determining your ideal, break-even and median rates
Having a buffer income to serve as safety net while your business picks up or during slow periods
Finding a niche and specializing in at most 3 domains
Investing in continuous education: formal, training, workshops, conferences…
Getting certified especially if you don’t have a degree in translation
Using recommended software & tools. Click here for a list of recommended software and tools for a freelance translator
Making use of available resources. Click here for a list of some available resources for a freelance translator
Maintaining consistent good customer service and customer satisfaction:
Responsiveness
High quality
Reliability
Confidentiality
Implementing a consistent networking/marketing strategy:
Strong online presence
Social media: Website or blog, LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter
Joining industry and target market Facebook and LinkedIn
Joining local, national and international professional associations
Joining professional directories
Proz.com
TranslatorsCafé
Different profiles and marketing methods for direct and indirect clients
A good targeted CV
Exercising good time-management and self-discipline
Outsourcing the following tasks if possible:
Bookkeeping
Accounting
Web design
Housekeeping
Ensuring payment is received by:
Identifying and avoiding scams
Requesting a Purchase Order prior to accepting a job
Vetting new clients
Submitting an invoice with delivery
Offering different payment platforms to facilitate multi-currency payments from across the globe:
There exist quite a few resources on freelance translator tips out there. Even though some existing tips are applicable across the board, every author’s content and experience are unique and so is their readership or target audience. In the paragraphs below, I am sharing those tips and best practices that have worked for me as a French-English freelance translator. My assumption is that you already possess the necessary translator training, skills and techniques including:
