Do you master a multitude of languages and would you like to make a living from your passion? If so, the ideal would be to become a translator. There are several options available to you for this profession. With the recent pandemic that has hit the world and the existence of the internet, you can work independently from your home or in a coworking space. What are the requirements to become a freelance translator?
Overview of the freelance translation profession
Translation is a profession that does not offer many opportunities for permanent or fixed-term contracts. This is why more and more professionals are naturally turning to freelance status.
There is no precise definition for a freelance translator. However, it is certain that it is an independent professional who collaborates with several clients in order to translate documents.
The clients of the freelance translator
In order to earn their fees, freelance transl ators generally work with private companies. Depending on the circumstances, they may also work with international organizations. In this case, they must pass a special competition in order to earn the right to work for this type of organization. Finally, according to the Labor Code, the freelance translator can work on his own account for private individuals.
The fields of activity of the freelance translator
The field of translation is general. However, some freelance translators specialize in a specific sector to reach a specific target. Therefore, there are several types of freelance translators.
The literary freelance translator
A literary translator is a professional who translates works of literature. Note that this specialist does not only translate novels. He also helps to make cookbooks easier to understand in many other languages.
The technical freelance translator
The technical freelance translator is specialized in a specific field. Among the different options that are usually available to them are: medicine, business, law and marketing. They are responsible for mastering the vocabulary and mechanics of the profession. This allows him to be very efficient and to fully satisfy his partners.
The sworn freelance translator
The sworn freelance translator is a professional whose contract is to translate official legal texts. These are usually civil status or notarial documents.
These are all possibilities that are available to you if you aspire to become a freelance translator.
What are the tasks of a freelance translator?
A freelance or salaried translator is required to perform a large number of tasks. When he is a freelancer, these tasks are considered as assignments.
First, he is responsible for transposing his client's document from language A to language B. To satisfy his client, he must ensure that his translation is consistent with the form and content of the original text. When the text contains several subtleties, his mission can be complicated.
Secondly, he or she proofreads the documents entrusted to him or her for grammar and spelling. In the case of a sworn translation, his task is to convert the legal standards.
Third, the freelance translator does project management. In other words, he translates a large volume of texts for his clients, who are usually private individuals.
Finally, according to the terms of the freelance contract, the translator ensures the online publication of the translated text. Of course, in order to perform his task in an optimal way, he must necessarily have some skills.
What are the essential qualities to become a freelance translator?
If you are desperate to become a freelance translator, there are certain qualities you must have. Here are some of them.
Linguistic qualities
The translation business is all about languages. If you want to become a freelance translator, you must be impeccable in grammar, conjugation and spelling in your chosen languages. In addition, you must have good writing skills to convince your clients.
Computer skills
According to the terms of the contract you will fix with your customers, you will be led to publish texts on the Internet. Therefore, you must have a knowledge of computer rules. The mastery of HTML and the use of the WordPress CMS are interesting qualities that will be recognized.
The quality of anticipation
Unlike the translator who has a fixed-term contract, the freelancer has an indefinite working period. It is therefore important that they have foresight. He must be able to save money to achieve his life goals.
Why freelance as a translator?
In France, many people work as freelance translators. This means that this mode of work offers them a multitude of advantages.
Independence
The first advantage of freelance translation is its independence. Indeed, by opting for this profession, you will not depend on any hierarchical superior. Here, you only have to satisfy your partners since you are both the employee and the employer. You are free to negotiate the terms of your contract.
Freedom to set working hours
In a company, the salaried translator has a time constraint. In order to avoid conflicts with his hierarchy, he must respect it. The freelance translator does not encounter this kind of difficulty. He organizes his schedule according to his needs and the assignments he is given. According to his preferences, he can work at night, on public holidays or on weekends.
Furthermore, he does not have to travel to a location to work. While staying at home, he can accomplish his mission, which allows him to save money since he does not pay travel expenses.
The absence of dismissal
As mentioned above, the freelance translator represents both the employee and the employer. In other words, he or she has no employment contract. Note that in a company, the latter includes the terms of dismissal. So, if you choose to work as a freelance translator, there is no risk. On the other hand, you must learn to satisfy your clients if you do not want to lose them.
How to become a freelance translator?
To become a freelance translator, you have several solutions at your disposal. First, it is important to specify that translation is not a regulated field in France. Therefore, you can become a freelance translator without having a degree. However, you must prove your language level and writing skills in order to reassure the client.
Secondly, there are training courses to become a freelance translator. Some schools offer tailor-made courses with the aim of producing quality freelance translators. To access schools such asESIT, ITIRI or ISIT, you generally need to have a Bac +2 or Bac +3.
Finally, you can also spend long periods of time in foreign countries to learn the languages you have learned.
How do I get known as a freelance translator?
To become a successful freelance translator, you need to apply certain techniques. First of all, you should update your resume with the latest information about your qualifications or skills. Secondly, you can create a freelance translator blog to share content. In addition, you can contact freelance translator platforms to create your profile. This will allow you to satisfy some clients. Finally, with excellent skills, you can easily turn to translation agencies.
Which legal status to become a freelance translator?
To become a freelance translator, you must choose your legal status carefully. Generally, the micro-entrepreneur or auto-entrepreneur status is recommended. The advantage with these solutions is that they require few administrative steps. However, you must invest a little money. Depending on the evolution of your turnover and your activities, you can evolve towards the status of SASU or EURL with a different regime.
How to work as a freelance translator?
If you are desperate to become a freelance translator, you should know that your freelance status will offer you several opportunities.
You will have the opportunity to work with a multitude of international companies and organizations. If you don't like this idea, you can open your own translation agency. Of course, you need to have the experience and professionalism to do so. Also, you need to find the right space to work, while maintaining excellent productivity.
How to become a freelance translator: summary
In short, being a freelance translator offers several advantages such as freedom and no redundancy. In order to convince clients and to keep them, you must have the right skills and qualities.
