Skype

For a while now I have contemplated using Skype as a marketing tool.  With this technology I can reach clients on a larger scale.  Instead of flying workers and/or clients in and arranging accomodations, people are using Internet based portals at a growing rate to hold meetings, give lessons, and conduct different aspects of business.  Why not go the same route for translation?  Yes translation is written text, but a tool like Skype could be beneficial, for instance, in discussing a current or future project with a client.  If your proofreader has Skype you can go over any discrepancies or questions that may arise without having to constantly send emails to each other. The immediate connection through Skype, along with the face to face contact may put you at an advantage.  Any tool that facilitates or benefits your business can only be positive after all!

Can't think in my own language!

I just finished a small project for which I am thankful.  They always seem to pop up when you need them most!  While working on this document however, you would not believe how many times my mind went blank and I couldn't even think in English!  I mean, I couldn't find the words or phrases needed.  Somethimes I feel as if I think too hard and I don't just let the meaning of what I'm reading flow out of me onto the computer screen.  Its like my brain turns off.  For example, when learning a language you just have to talk.  Don't worry about making mistakes because chances are, in my experience anyways, if you think too hard you tend to make more errors.  Whereas, for example, if you are at ease, it just kind of rolls off your tongue (usually much more correctly)!  The same with translation....as long as you get the basic meaning down, you can always go back and tweek it.  Translation should not be a terribly laborious task.  When I feel my mind blocking I make myself take a break otherwise the translation is no longer a fulfilling experience but rather becomes more like a difficulte chore.

Direct clients or agencies?

I have worked for both direct clients and translation agencies.  There are advantages and disadvantages to both I think but I definitely prefer direct clients.  I would never say that one has higher standards than the other, hovever, I do feel that in my experience the direct client tends to be a little easier to work with. If there is ever a question concerning the project the answer is just an email away, as opposed to having to go through the agency to see exactly what the client is trying to convey.  Payment can be more easily negotiated, as well as, on certain occasions, the deadline.  Agencies usually want projects yesterday and can't really budge on the price much.  While I am always professional with all my clients, I do like the rapport that develops where I can actually address them by their first name or not have to worry about exactly how I word my email and can just reply with  a 'Pas de problème.  Vous l'aurez d'ici la fin du mois'.  A certain satisfaction comes along with knowing that someone really likes your work and will continue to send work your way

Marketing yourself to agencies is far more difficult in my opinion also.  I feel that the direct client is much more willing to take a chance on a new translator than an agency is.  If the translator doesn't not live up to agreed expectations then the direct client can just move on, where as the agency has a reputation to uphold and the consequences may be far more serious.  Agencies have lists of translators they can contact and, like anyone would, probably stick with translators that have worked for them for a long time and have consistently proved themselves.  There are also no tests to take with direct clients!

Anyone have any thoughts on this?