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/262810
Vol/53 No/1 2014 FEATURES subjects connected with my home country' – an idea repeated by another respondent: 'i spend so much time acting as a tour guide for foreign visitors that i have thought about diversifying into tourism, perhaps specialised, tailored travel involving interpreting.' the importance of enjoying the work was reflected in these contrasting attitudes to editing: 'i love editing/proofreading/ reviewing/revising' and 'i'd like to have enough translation work to enable me to turn down all requests for copy editing and proofreading, i find that so dull.' Making it happen When asked 'Do you know how to pursue your ideas?' many pointed to the need for background research, preparation and effective marketing. A notable theme was the importance of contacts, reflected here: 'Loads of online searches, talking to anyone who is interested in the concept.' the following comment supports our approach of learning from each other: 'First of all i try to get a certain background about the viability of my idea and talk to people from the industry whom i know and who will be honest with me.' Being productive was clearly a priority: 'i'm trying to build up a body of work to submit to literary translation magazines and competitions.' Another responded: 'i believe strongly in the power of visibility via social media and websites. i am sure that the way to go is by getting out there.' No one imagined that diversifying would be easy. Nevertheless, two participants declared that 'nothing' would stop them. others had reservations; the major theme was time, cited in 50 percent of responses: 'the risk of investing time and money for no guarantee of success' was putting off one participant. Financial reasons were cited by six respondents, and the problem of where to begin was also mentioned: 'Just finding a way in is very difficult without existing contacts and proven experience.' three participants said the hardest part was 'marketing of my new service'. On closer analysis in addition to training on efficient marketing techniques, there was a clear need for guidance in getting started. the presentations at the diversification event explained the work involved in transcreation, subtitling and games translation, but participants needed advice on gaining experience, making contacts and finding their first commissions. Another notable theme was the use of skills acquired in previous roles. Several participants expressed excitement over their plans to diversify but there was also an awareness that the risks might be too great and unnecessary. the final comment goes to this participant: 'Discussions with other translators… helped me also to see that i must put my energy in what i'm good at, which is literary translation, while in the meantime accepting contracts which are quite varied – so a bit of diversity there, if not diversification! Just finding a way in is very difficult without existing contacts and proven experience tariq Ghali MciL studied languages in Egypt and took a Marketing degree in London. having taught himself desktop publishing, he began working as a consultant on languages written right-to- left, such as Arabic. in his current role as Language team Supervisor, he oversees a package of services, including translation, design and publishing. in dealing with complex formatting and presentation issues, tariq provides a service that few other translators can offer. his passion for languages, cultures and continuous learning have proved vital. however, he warns that technology can be catastrophic in untutored hands and advises: 'focus on what you do best.' THE SUPERVISOR chris keen MciL became a freelance translator after a successful career in sales and it. Drawing on his many business contacts, he initially offered consultancy services to British, French and Spanish companies trading in each other's countries. however, he gradually reduced those activities to focus on translation – his main interest. Following the diversification event, chris has decided to pursue transcreation work. Along with several other participants, he realised that he already had some experience in this area and intends to contact existing and new clients to highlight this. Marketing transcreation skills will be a 'good fit' with his translation activities. THE TRANSLATOR Airu Li MciL is a freelance interpreter who recently gained a DpSi in English law. While she considers her career path, she is working as a Language coordinator in an advertising company. the job involves working on a diverse range of media assets with the assistance of translation technology. it also allows Airu to apply her linguistic skills in various ways, for example, directing voiceovers for advertisements in Mandarin. Airu is making good use of these opportunities. She says: 'Sometimes, i myself provide chinese adaptation for headlines and subtitles in-house. i value these experiences and i'm considering becoming a freelance copywriter.' THE INTERPRETER FEBRUARY/MARch The Linguist 21