It is hard for new translators to get translation tasks due to no clear portfolio or track record from previous clients. A new translator can start by offering translation services in the locality or volunteering to clients seeking translation services for testimonials.
When looking for translators in the locality and have nowhere to look for, many clients usually end up typing in the browser, translation services near me. A simple search on the browser can bring up many results and narrow down to the exact location. Getting a correct result from the typical search depends on the location settings of the device on use. Because of this, a new translator should market and register themselves online and make sure they state their location.
Here are some of the tips for new translators to get translation jobs and grow themselves in this piece.
1. Set working days
As a new translator, it is essential to get the working hours and days clearly stated. Some clients might have urgent tasks completed and might look for a translator even during weekends or at night. To avoid being contacted outside the working hours and days, a simple search with working days indicated will make it easy for a client to get you for work.
Having working days also requires that all the work given is completed and communicated effectively to the client. This is important primarily when a task is delivered late, for example, on Saturday, and the translator only works on weekdays.
2. Indicate rates
The hard part for a starting out translator is having standard rates. Getting the right rates for the translation market and match up an entry-level translator’s rates can be very hard to get right. Some translators may end up undercharging more work for less pay, or overcharging and having to scare away clients.
3. Have a niche
Being a general translator can make one lose many clients. Some clients might search for ‘translation services near me in automotive,’ but the translator is a general translator with no niche in the same locality. When contacted, the client might not deem you fit for the task. This is why it is important to niche down and have extensive knowledge in the field of expertise.
4. High-quality translation work
High-quality work will guarantee long-term relationships or expect more work in the future from clients. More tasks in return will help grow your translation business and reach out to many clients.
When starting, it is important to not take much work that you cannot handle for quality work. Fewer tasks with good quality will make the client reach out next time with more jobs. Also, more periodic tasks will improve one’s confidence and help build a strong portfolio when looking for more tasks.
5. Language specialty
Understanding different languages and their cultures will help improve translation quality. It is better to be bilingual and able to understand both cultures and current affairs to provide up-to-date translations. This will improve the reputations earned, and it is sure for more clients in the future.
In contrast, if a client gets a rushed and unprofessional translation with less research, the translator’s reputation will be damaged, and getting future tasks will be slim.
