Welcome to my first blog post here at The Word Loft. If you’ve ever wanted a sneak peak inside a translator’s mind, you’re in the right place. Wanting to know how the industry works? I’ll cover that too. Wondering how to find the right translator? I’ve got you.
Today let’s start with how to find a good translator.
How do I find a good translator? There are so many!
A quick Google search brings up thousands of results, many of them translation agencies and some of them freelancers (we’ll look at the pros and cons of translation agencies vs freelance translators another day). It’s like a needle in a haystack!
Let’s concentrate on freelancers here and what you need to ask them before agreeing to work with them - although you should ask the same questions of any agency you approach too.
How do I know the translator I choose is up to the job?
Good question! Just as having two hands doesn’t make you a concert pianist, speaking another language doesn’t make you a competent translator. Asking a friend or colleague who speaks the language to help you translate sounds like a great idea but can often backfire.
Most professional translators choose to study for a degree in translation or take a postgraduate qualification. The Diploma in Translation offered by the Chartered Institute of Linguists is a professional qualification set at Level 7 (Master’s level) and is recognised and accepted both nationally and internationally by the translation industry.
It’s important to check your translator’s qualifications and professional membership so you know you’re dealing with someone you can trust.
How do I cut through all the search results?
A good way of finding a translator is to check industry websites like the Institute of Translation and Interpreting or the Chartered Institute of Linguists, not only can you search their list of certified translators (and trust me, they vet their members very thoroughly before accepting them) you can also use the handy member check facility to look up someone who says they are a member.
The Find-a-Linguist search facility on the CIOL lets you narrow down your search by language, subject and other skills, so whether you want a French legal translator based in Liverpool or an Italian fashion translator with editing experience based in Leeds, just key in what you’re looking for and you’ll find a selection of qualified linguists along with all their contact details.
Last but by no means least – get in touch! Pick up the phone or drop your chosen translator an email. Just like recruiting a staff member, it’s important to get the right fit for your company. We all prefer working with people we like and can relate to. We’re a friendly bunch and are always happy to chat about what we do and how we can help you.
Click here to find out why I could be the translator you need on your team and click here to get in touch!