The translation is needed in every era. We need to communicate with heterogeneous languages to deal with the global world. If you want to study after high school or want to step into the job market then pursuing a career in the translation industry is a good option. You should analyze your linguistic skills before getting into this incredible profession. To pursue a career in translation, one should be proficient in at least two languages in addition to a mother tongue. A professional translator should have great linguistic skills and he should be creative. The language service has never seen a recession, and it is projected that the revenue of this industry will reach $47.46 by 2021. Like other industries, there is fierce competition in the translation industry, so the translators hired by these companies should have the required knowledge, skills, and attitude to provide impeccable translation services.

If you speak another language and you are inquisitive about foreign cultures, then you can become a translator. You can play your part in the welfare of the world by mitigating the communication barriers. You can help people to understand each other, study in a foreign land, and make them enjoy the literary works of renowned writers.

Skill Set for Translators

To become a professional translator is not an easy task. It requires dedication, consistency, and passion for languages. Let’s have a look at how you can become a translator.

Linguistic Skills

In order to become a good translator, one has to have good linguistic skills. The translator should be fluent in the source and the target language. Languages are spoken differently in every region, as per their linguistic and regional nuances. Translators from the native land are aware of regional and cultural intricacies and can provide seamless translations easily. Many translation companies hire those translators who spent a major part of their life in the country where the source language is spoken.

Writing Skills

Good writing skills in the target language are necessary to become a good translator. A professional translator should be able to write well and should understand the grammar and vocabulary of the source text. They should also know different dialects, punctuation, sentence construction, grammar, nuances, complex words, and phrases.

Translators are writers because translation is also writing in one way. The difference is that translators do not come up with the content. On the other hand, they are required to resonate with the tone, message, and purpose of the original content.

Technological Skills

The translators should be competent in using technology because like other fields, the translation industry is going through technological evolution. Translators should take technology not as a threat but as a great opportunity. They should be able to integrate the use of translation tools to increase translation efficiency. Technological skills will also help the translator to get employed by any reputed translation company. The translators should know how to use CAT (computer-assisted translation) tools. If you know HTML, it will add value but it is not necessary. A good translator should also possess good typing skills, as they need to deal with written documents.

Occupational Skills

At present, many people are going for freelancing. If you want to become a translator then you must have business expertise. You should know about marketing and sales. They will help you in penetrating the market easily and building a professional network. The network will further help you in finding a translation job. The translators should be persistent in their work so that he can make their names among the freelancers. To become a translator, one should be organized and punctual.

How to Become a Professional Translator

Let’s have a look at how can you become a professional translator.

Qualification

As part of being proficient in two languages, you should take linguistic studies to become a translator. After high school, a person should take language courses. Most of the translators have a bachelor’s degree and they are specialized in specific languages. Many translators are specialized in different fields like medical, legal, finance, pharmaceutical, and many others. Linguistic skills and years of experience make translators subject matter experts in their fields.

Certification

After completing the required education, translators should opt for certification or accreditation to become a certified translator. Certification shows that the translator is a professional. The American Translators Association offers different courses to certify a person as a translator. Accredited programs are also offered. When a person has taken certification from any organization then his name is included in the list of authorized people. In many countries, certification is not a strict requirement. It adds value to your profile if you add certifications to your CV.

Job Experience

Specific industry experience is required for translators. To gain experience, you can start by working as an intern. Prior experience is very important for translators. Entry-level work will help you in developing your skills and assist you in knowing the intricacies of the translation. Your experience will polish your skills and help to develop the portfolio that you can show to your potential clients, take their recommendations, and pursue your employment.

Market Yourself

You need to market yourself if you want to work as a translator. You should build your network by joining professional groups of translators or by writing online blogs. Keep your resume ready and it is necessary to finalize translation rates. You can set your translation rates by asking freelance translators how much they are charging.

Wrapping Up

Do you want to become a translator? Complete your qualification, acquire, certification, and update yourself with the latest technology. Moreover, you need to develop your vocabulary related to your subject so that you can stand in the fierce competition of translators.