Being able to speak and write two or more languages fluently is a real skill and one that can be turned into a lucrative extra or primary source of income. Before calling around for translation jobs, however, there are a few things to consider. Here is a quick guide to how build a home-based business as a freelance translator.
Time Management for Freelance Translators
For anyone considering doing freelance translation work in addition to a paid job, it is important to think about the reasons for doing this and how much time can be invested in finding and completing assignments. Is the goal to make a little extra money every month to help with bills? Or is this the first step towards a full-time, home-based business? A freelance existence can be quite unpredictable – this is exactly what attracts some people to it – and clients often pop up with jobs that had not been discussed at all until that day.
What to Charge for Translation Work
Yes, money is a dirty word but one that can’t be avoided. Even translators who are just setting out should make sure they are paid fairly. One of the first decisions to make is how to charge for work: per word, per hour or per job. Sometimes this is determined by the client who, for example, may have a certain budget and will offer a fixed price so that there is no risk of going over budget. Usually, translators charge per word (based on the word count of the original text), and this is also what clients expect.
If charging an hourly rate, translators should work out how many words they think they can translate in an hour, making sure not to underestimate. Of course, this depends to some extent on the kind of material being translated – a children’s book will take less time than a technical user’s manual – but it is a good idea to have an average figure in mind in advance. It is also worth considering whether to charge a higher rate for last-minute or weekend jobs.
Freelance translators should look around the local area and find out what the going rate is for translation services and price themselves competitively. Charge too much and potential clients may go elsewhere, but charge too little and they send out the message that they do not value their own work.
Building a Freelance Translator Portfolio
It is imperative for starting freelance translators to build a portfolio of work as soon as possible, as clients will often ask about prior experience. This also helps build confidence in their abilities. Translations that cover a wide range of industries and subject matter will also increase the chance of getting more jobs in the future. There will always be other translators out there with more experience, so it does not pay to be too choosy initially (if necessary, do a couple of jobs for free for charities or organizations with limited funds). Leave the cherry-picking to established translators with a track record and client list.
Anyone with a qualification in or specialist knowledge of a certain topic or industry should certainly pursue translation opportunities in this area. However, while it may be possible to charge higher rates in a niche area, this is also limiting, and the amount of work could be less.
Training and Education for Translators
A feel for language and the ability to turn a good phrase is more important than a qualification in translation. However, if translation could become a full-time, home-based business, it is worth finding out about local possibilities to gain a recognized translation certificate. This can give a freelance translator credibility.
Networking
Successful freelancers are also good at networking, so start building a network immediately. Remember that it takes much more effort to find a new client than it does to keep a happy existing client. By consistently submitting top-quality translations on deadline, it is very likely clients will keep coming back and refer others to your services, too.
Cecily Layzell - Cecily Layzell is a food and travel writer and founder of restaurant review site www.eat-amsterdam.com.
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