SIX TOP TIPS FOR BECOMING A CERTIFIED TRANSLATOR

There are numerous different career paths open to translators. Translation services, agencies and clients usually only show an interest in translators who are certified, though, so you can rest assured that the energy invested in going down the necessary route to become a certified translator will pay dividends.

But what is a certified translator?

A certified translator is a translator who has passed the prestigious certification exam administered by a professional translation organisation such as the American Translator Association or IoL DipTrans.


1. MASTER YOUR CHOSEN LANGUAGE

An obvious one, I know. However, it can’t be stressed enough how much time and dedication you have to put into learning your chosen language in your own time. Amass as many relevant resources as possible to help you learn, and integrate MP3 audio recordings into your studies. When focusing on one particular topic, condense the most important notes onto a laminated page, before putting it somewhere where you can read it every day.

2. DECIDE ON YOUR PATH

You need to have an idea of how you wish to operate as a translator, so you can draw up a plan and prepare in the right way to achieve your goals. It takes different attributes to operate within a corporation, a translation service company or as a freelance translator. You may also choose to specialise in a certain field. There are many fields you can see yourself as an expert in such as legal, medical, website, marketing translation...or you can choose to be an interpreter, usually working in courts, hospitals, events, conference… Whatever path you decide on will take a great deal of time and effort, so you’ll need to be confident in whatever decision you make.

3. ENROL IN A PROGRAM

There are a number of options in regard to translation certificate and certification programs. Colleges and universities are the obvious choices, you can find all information relating to online bilingual resources including translation courses, 7,500 online dictionaries and translation services via Lexicool. On the other hand, an increasing number of people are opting to do online programs. Audio interviews, video modules and resume feedback are some of many flexible services made available through these programs. You can find these online courses with Certified Translation Professional (CTP) Program.

You can also consider IoL DipTrans examination (www.iol.org.uk) if you really want to get high ranking in this industry as this is a very prestigious exam, especially in the UK.

4. SEEK HELP

A team of experienced professionals are behind all translator certification programs, so don’t waste any opportunities to seek their advice and pick their brains. Freelance translators are often happy to share their experiences and pass on their knowledge to those up and coming in the profession.

5. PUT YOURSELF OUT THERE

Get your resume out to as many agencies or prospective employers as you can, and even when you start working, make sure you continue networking. Joining a recognised translation association will help you establish your professional credentials and meet other translators. National Register of Public Service Interpreter (NRPSI) is a great place to register yourself as it maintains a register of professional, qualified and accountable public service interpreters. It has more than 2,000 interpreters with 101 languages and the number is increasing.

6. START AT THE BOTTOM

Translation is no easier to break in to than any other competitive industry. Paid or unpaid internships are a great way to earn experience, and many large charitable organisations are also constantly on the lookout for volunteer translators. When you do eventually start working, make sure you keep your asking rate relatively low at first.

Some organizations worth looking into:
+ Kiva www.kiva.com: non-profit organization with a mission to connect people through lending to alleviate poverty. Kiva’s Review and Translation Program relies on over 300 volunteers to edit, translate, and thoroughly review loan profiles from around the world.
+ Translations for Progress: http://www.translationsforprogress.org/howtohelp.php
+ http://www.volunteermatch.org/
+ http://www.onlinevolunteering.org/en/index.html
+ http://translatorswithoutborders.com/
+ http://www.translators4kids.com

It won’t be easy to become a certified translator but it’s possible easily as long as you maintain your focus, keep plugging away to get your break, and don’t be deterred by setbacks. The translation industry is bigger now than it has ever been and is continuing to expand, making this the best possible time to get your foot on the ladder.

Quicklingo.com is one of the leading translation companies in the UK. We are very proud that all our native translators are certified as we want to provide a highest translation service to our customers. Quicklingo.com specialises in all type of translations in more than 100 languages from legal translation, medical translation, court interpreting to certificate translation. Should you have any enquiries, please do not hesitate to call us on: 0208 7691 730.