Starting out as a translator
A budding freelancer’s experience
Philippe Galinier
Background
• Previous career
• Part-time M.A. UoW
• The Foreign Office
Current work
• FCO is main client
• Areas of specialism
• Other clients
• Translation teacher
Starting as a translator:
A few practical steps - 1
• Update CV, covering letter
• Become Associate member of the ITI
• Start thinking business!
• Start basic book-keeping system
• Set up office space at home
A few practical steps - 2
• Review hardware and software
• Attend professional events
• Get Professional Indemnity Insurance (PII)
• Join other relevant professional bodies
• Re-brand myself as a translator
Qualities required
• Positive attitude
• Patience
• Self-motivation
• Happy working on your own
• Good communication skills
• Good IT skills
Job satisfaction
• Freedom and flexibility
• Being in charge
• Learning environment
• Providing a professional service
• A sense of worth through work
Not just about translation
• General admin
• Keeping accurate accounts
• Investing in the business
• Marketing your services
• Keeping up with new developments
• Maintaining glossaries
PROFESSIONAL ORGANISATIONS
• Institute of Translation and Interpreting (ITI)
• Chartered Institute of Linguists (CIoL)
ITI
• Friendly and experienced professionals
• CPD
• The ITI “Bulletin”
• The PII
• The ITI website Members Area
CIoL
• Additional qualification
• “Find A Linguist” database
• “The Linguist” journal
• CPD events
• Online networks of translators
Some advice
• Alternative sources of income
• Proactive
• Professional self-image
• Flexible
Fluffybunny@hotstuff.com
Info@stylustranslation.co.uk
Advice (ctd)
• Be realistic
• Consider related services
• Keep a record of word count
• Enjoy life/work balance
Professional goals
• Develop business
• Launch website
• Attend new CPD events
• Explore new areas of specialism
• Become a full ITI member
Questions?