Steps to Take to get a Professional Translation Job

Translation services have rapidly grown over time due to the high demand of content (literature, website content, blog posts, publications, journals, press releases) in different languages. The world is moving towards one universal information library. In the process, numerous translation courses have been developed to equip upcoming translators or interpreters with knowledge and fitting skills for the jobs available.

Many languages pairs are available for translation such as English- French, Spanish- German. This can be done using online software (machine translation) or by human translation and both offer relatively high levels of accuracy. To get a translation job, you need to be fluent in at least two languages. But on a professional level, you need to get certified as a professional translator with these small steps in order to get hired.

Take a Course

Language translation courses range wide topics from Business of translation and interpretation, software tools used, services offered and specialization in the course material. The courses can be attained through on-demand videos, self-studying, one on one training and scheduled courses that include webinar presentations, online training and free webinars. The choice is totally dependent on you. However, many parts of the course can be waived when you a bachelor’s degree in a foreign language.

Get Certified

After the course studies, next in line is applying and taking the certification exam that tests your translation knowledge and skills.  Attaining this credential in this business is enough justification to your future employer that you are equipped with the appropriate skills for all interpretations job because it is tested on international standards.

Take Multiple Proficiency tests

Different companies believe in different proficiency tests and so do the countries. To increase your chances of being hired, take as many tests as you can get hold on. This gives potential employers evidence of your commitment to your career and strength in the field of translation.

Create an attractive portfolio

In the search for a good job, an attractive portfolio raises your chances of getting a good job. Build up your resume elaborating your education and work experiences. Not only formal working experience are included, but also the informal translations done have to be incorporated to give strength to your portfolio. Links to your work should be included in your profile to back up your portfolio.

Market your skills

After building your profile, it is time to let the world know of your skills. Use all social platforms to showcase your skills. Join groups of local translators and online platforms as they always have job opportunities and resources for your career as not all required practical information is got from the study courses.

Apply to Professional Companies

It is said that opportunity finds those who are ready, this applies to job applications as well. It is good practice to bank your CV or resume with professional companies to place yourself in good position for any opening that comes up. Routinely check on their job portal to apply for the available jobs.

With these steps, you are assured of a professional job on the translation industry.