By Karen Sampson

Many people dream of a freelance career in translation for various reasons and motivations.  While there are countless native speakers who are capable of being successful freelance translators, certain things ultimately end up preventing them from achieving success in the field.  Starting off a career as a freelance translator can be a challenging endeavor, but it is not impossible.  What follows is a list of a few tips for people who are interested in freelancing that will help get things moving forward.

Translate Everything

As a freelancer, you will rarely be able to actually pick your clients or subject matter, except during the initial bidding process.  In order to make sure that you are marketable, you must be versatile.  This means that you need to be able to translate in various situations at a moment’s notice.  Start working on building up your repertoire while honing your skills on topics and subject matter that lies outside your comfort zone.  Read and write in multiple languages every day to work on your language skills.

Translate Frequently

If you want to translate for others full-time, you are going to be a busy person indeed.  Expect to spend some quality time with your dictionaries and anyone who can help you practice the language effectively.  Translating frequently will keep you in practice and on your toes so that you will be well-trained for the day when you have more assignments that you know what to do with.

Compile a Portfolio

A good portfolio highlights you abilities and your range, emphasizing style and professionalism above all things.  Whatever you do, take time when selecting client to include in your portfolio that will speak to your potential employers about your abilities.  Do not include everything you have done; rather, select the projects which have earned you acclaim or that you are particularly proud of.

Look for Work Often

Getting the ball rolling regarding a career as a freelance translator involves perseverance above all else.  Rather than waiting for someone to pluck you out of the crowd, you need to go out there and get it.  This means that while you are waiting to get into the field, you need to pound a lot of pavement and try to find as many opportunities to practice your skills as you possibly can.  The internet is a great place to start building a name for yourself, so start there as soon as you can.

 

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