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What does a freelance translator do?

A freelance translator is an independent contractor who works for a variety of clients, converting written content as well as live or recorded dialogue from one language to another. Sometimes known as an interpreter, a freelance translator might work for an individual or for a company.

When working for an individual, a freelance translator may help translate everything from books and letters to emails and conversations with family and friends to consumer goods packaging.

Freelancers who work for companies are often asked to handle multiple translation tasks. Those may include translating manuals, presentations, brochures, textbooks, and consumer package content information.

Many translators hired by multinational companies not only work on written and audio content but also travel and support executives and other client constituents at conferences and sales meetings.

What skills do I need to become a freelance translator?

To become an effective freelance translator, you’ll need to master a number of translation skills. Not all translators have every available skill, but having the skills listed below can provide you with an advantage when clients are looking to hire a freelancer.

• Fluency in at least two languages. Translators must have a thorough understanding of the two languages involved in a translation project. If translating from English to German, it’s critical that the translator understand the details and nuances of each language.
• Thorough understanding of the culture where the language is spoken. Many words and phrases have different meanings depending on the country where the language is spoken. Understanding those nuances will ensure successful translations and avoid embarrassing incidents.
• Excellent writing skills. Most projects involving freelance translators will involve written content. It’s important that translators know how to effectively write in the languages involved in the translation process, including proper grammar, excellent punctuation, and correct use of gender.
• Attention to detail. Because freelance translators have the expertise needed to translate from one language to another, it’s safe to assume the expertise needed for one of the languages is not readily available in-house. As a result, clients rely on freelance translators to exhibit great attention to detail, catching errors the client may have missed.
• Good communication skills. Even when the client and the translator are speaking in their native tongues, it’s easy for miscommunication to occur. Communicating effectively will help ensure translation projects are completed successfully.
• Excellent organizational skills. It’s common that freelance translators will work with multiple clients at any given time. Properly organizing work, clients, and priorities will go a long way in ensuring you don’t feel overwhelmed when working on several projects simultaneously.
• Exceptional computer skills. Most translation services will include the use of computer software. Not only should freelance translators be well versed in navigating word processing software, but having familiarity with desktop publishing and other software can also come in handy when fulfilling client requests.

What are the core freelance translator job responsibilities?

Freelance translators are often tasked with several responsibilities when fulfilling client requests. While most are associated with actual translation responsibilities, some do not directly involve translations but are directly related to converting content from one language to another.

The most important freelance translator job responsibilities include the following:

• Maintain proper professional boundaries when translating dialogue
• Facilitate communication during a discussion between two parties
• Follow client protocols and guidelines when translating from one language to another
• Meet deadlines as determined by the client
• Meet translation volume required as outlined by the client
• Review and edit all translated content to ensure accuracy
• Research new and unique cultural meanings of words and phrases for target languages.

Should I get a translation degree or certification?

While translators are not required, for the most part, to be certified to work for clients on a freelance basis, obtaining a certification is very helpful in certain industries such as the legal and medical professions. Obtaining a bachelor’s degree and/or certification will do a great deal to help you stand apart when clients search for capable translators.