Archive for the ‘translation business’ Category

Top Sites for Translation Jobs

Tuesday, March 25th, 2008

Proz.com

Seasoned translators know about Proz.com anyway but this review will be definitely useful for those who are making their first steps in translation business.

Russian translation jobs is “The translation workplace” for translators from all over the world and it really helps you to network, improve your work and expand your business. According to Alexa, website that gathers web information and statistics, ProZ.com belongs to top 5,000 most visited websites in the world. Translation jobs posted last year cost over $60 million and there are 160,000 registered translators, interpreters and linguists.

Here’s the most useful things about the website:

  1. You can create our own profile with lots of details so that potential customers can make an informed decision when they choose a translator.
  2. Customers can also post their job and received quotes from the translators who are interested in taking it up. The outsourcer can choose the best offer by comparing the bids and the bidders’ skills and experience.
  3. Translators can get help with difficult terms and those who answer questions receive KudoZ points (gain reputation).

List of other websites for translation jobs:

It will take many hours to register but it’s worth it. If you know any other similar websites, please take a moment to add them in the comments.

Top misconceptions about translators

Thursday, March 20th, 2008

Most people (and many clients) have some misconceptions about translators that lead to misunderstandings:

  • As a translator you can translate all subjects
  • If you speak a foreign language you can automatically translate into it
  • If you can hold a conversation in a foreign language then you are bilingual
  • Translators are mind-readers and can produce a perfect translation without having to consult the author of the original text, irrespective of whether it is ambiguous, vague or badly written
  • No matter how many versions of the original were made before final copy was
    approved or how long the process took, the translator needs only one stab at the task,
    and very little time, since he gets it right first time without the need for checking or
    proof-reading. After all, the computer does all that for you.

What were the most unrealistic expectations from you as a translator? Feel free to share your experiences.