The Linguist is a languages magazine for professional linguists, translators, interpreters, language professionals, language teachers, trainers, students and academics with articles on translation, interpreting, business, government, technology
Issue link: https://thelinguist.uberflip.com/i/1099780
28 The Linguist Vol/58 No/2 2019 ciol.org.uk/tl OPINION & COMMENT Growing up in Turkey, I studied English from the age of 11, and when I worked in a hostel for a year, it became a daily part of my life. As I read the English books left by visitors, it occurred to me that working with books and using my language skills is what would make me happy; I began by translating a romantic novel. After moving to the UK in 2009, I tried a range of different jobs before starting out as a translator. The first years of freelance life were not easy. I was qualified as a Chemical Engineer and it was difficult to get a translation qualification while raising my two children. I found out about the Diploma in Translation (DipTrans) while researching CIOL membership and it seemed ideal: official confirmation of my professional capabilities from a leading industry body. In August 2016, I applied to take the exam the following January. I didn't have time to do a course; working full-time as a translator was my preparation. As an IoLET Affiliate, I requested past exam papers and examiner reports. The CIOL website is full of resources, Links online JO ROURKE Jo Rourke, founder of transcreation and translation company Silver Tongue Translations, on making Instagram work for your language business. We linguists can be an old-fashioned bunch. That's not a criticism – it's a compliment. The world could do with being a bit more exacting and a bit less 'it'll do'. But it can mean we hesitate to embrace new things. Instagram is one of these newfangled (come on, I know you were thinking it) ideas. Lots of people will tell you that Instagram doesn't work for linguists. Isn't it only for businesses selling quirky jewellery or overpriced clothes? But at its heart, Instagram is about sharing images and inspiration – why can't a linguist offer these too? I'm a translator and a writer, so I use Instagram to share my expertise and showcase my writing skills. Many customers remark on how reassuring it is to have a sample before buying, and with its generous word volume per post, Instagram is an ideal way of providing this. As ever, in my opinion, it comes back to choosing a niche. The most successful Instagram entrepreneurs pick their niche and become known for it. Whether you're an interpreter sharing your experiences from booths around the world, or a sports translator imparting the latest tips from the industry, it's all about contributing to a conversation (while respecting confidentiality, of course). My final piece of advice relates to writer's block. I have two tips for this. First, start slow – don't post five times a day if it doesn't suit you. Second, set a formula – how about starting with three types of post? The first could be something you find beautiful or inspirational; in the second you could share knowledge of your language or specialism; and the third could be (slightly) more personal. Above all with Instagram, the number one rule is to have fun… and be social! Share your thoughts @Linguist_CIOL using #TheLinguist. The successful student © CHRIS CHRISTODOULOU One award-winning Diploma in Translation candidate's journey from IoLET Affiliate to Chartered Linguist CEYDA ALDEMIR-DOWN free to IoLET Affiliates, and I read everything. On the day of the exam, I had a suitcase full of dictionaries, but I didn't use most of them. We were in Turkey when the results were due, and a friend called me to give me the results. Everything changed! First, I applied to upgrade to full CIOL membership, and to become Chartered. I was so excited to use my designatory letters and wasted no time in updating my CV and online profiles. It has given me such confidence that I regret not doing it years ago. I'm no longer shy to ask for the rate I think I deserve. Since being on CIOL's Find-a-Linguist directory I have been contacted by clients instead of having to compete for jobs posted online. When I found out I had won the Peter Newmark Award for Best DipTrans Candidate in Literature, I had recently lost my cousin and was struggling to keep going. I could not believe it and asked my husband to read and confirm the email. Receiving an award for something you are passionate about is such a delight. The awards event was a once-in-a- lifetime experience: a day to remember. Ceyda Aldemir-Down MCIL won the Peter Newmark Award 2017. TL