So you want to be a translator do you?! As with any job, however, you usually need some kind of experience. For translators this experience can very well come from, (and often does) doing volunteer translations. You can translate for non-profit organizations, free newsletters, newspapers, etc....the list goes on. There is always a need for volunteer translators. I did several translations for both Ashoka (a global assocation of entrepreneurs) and IAI (International Alliance of Inhabitants), both very reputable organizations, when I started my career and let me tell you it helped enormously!! Not only do you get a feel for the subjects you like to work in, which eventually can become specializations, but you can assess how you work and where you need to improve before you dive into paid work. I'm not insinuating at all that volunteer work is any less important, however, with a paid client the stakes do tend to be a little higher.
Today I still do the occasional volunteer translation when I have the time. Not only does it keep me on my toes but I also know that I am doing a good deed for someone who needs my help.
No comments:
Post a Comment