Traveling Interpreters: Working Abroad, Language By Language

If you're interested in travelling while working as an interpreter, there are a few things to consider. Firstly, interpreters typically need to be proficient in at least two languages, with English being one of them. This means that if you're looking to travel and work as an interpreter, you should ensure you have a strong command of the languages you'll be interpreting.

Another thing to keep in mind is that interpreters often work in specific fields such as medical, legal, or community settings. Gaining experience or qualifications in these areas can help you find work as an interpreter in different parts of the world. Additionally, you may want to consider getting certified through organisations like the American Translators Association, which can make you a more competitive candidate.

When it comes to finding work, there are online platforms that cater specifically to translators and interpreters, such as ProZ or TranslatorsCafe.com. These sites often allow you to create profiles, bid on jobs, and connect directly with clients.

Lastly, working remotely as an interpreter may come with certain restrictions. Some companies may require you to work from a specific location due to legal, taxation, or privacy concerns. Therefore, it's important to review any contractual obligations before planning to travel and work simultaneously.

Fluency in at least two languages is required

Fluency in at least two languages is a requirement for interpreters and translators. While some people do both, interpreting and translating are different skills. Interpreters work with spoken communication, including sign language, and translators work with written communication.

In the US, interpreters and translators typically need at least a bachelor's degree to enter the occupation. They also need to be proficient in at least two languages, one of which is usually English, and in the translation or interpretation service they plan to provide.

There are several specialisations for translators, including medical, legal, marketing, literary, and financial. Translators usually translate from their weak language into their stronger one, which is usually their native language.

There are many opportunities for translators to find work and travel the world. Online resources, such as job boards and platforms that let translators publish their resumes for free, can help translators connect with clients.

However, it is important to note that working as a freelance translator may come with unpredictable income. Additionally, when starting out, translators may need to be flexible and take on work with tight deadlines and across multiple time zones.

Translators convert written text, while interpreters work with the spoken word

The roles of translators and interpreters are often confused, but they are distinct jobs requiring different skill sets. Translators convert written text from one language to another, while interpreters work with the spoken word, or with sign language.

Translators

Translators work with written documents, so good writing skills are essential. They need to produce smooth, accurate, error-free text, so they must be able to read and research reference materials to support the translation process. Translators usually translate from their weaker language into their stronger, native language, to ensure the highest quality of work. They must be able to transmit cultural references, slang, and other expressions that do not translate literally. Nearly all translators use software in their work, such as computer-assisted translation (CAT) tools, which help translators to be efficient and consistent.

Interpreters

Interpreters listen to speakers and translate their message simultaneously. This requires excellent listening and public speaking skills, as well as the ability to make quick decisions. Interpreters may have to paraphrase what is said, but they must ensure that the core meaning remains. They may work with spoken language, or with sign language, and they may work remotely or in person. There are three common modes of interpreting:

• Simultaneous interpreting, where the interpreter conveys the message into another language at the same time as the speaker is speaking.
• Consecutive interpreting, where the interpreter conveys the message after the speaker has finished. This usually involves taking notes.
• Sight translation, where the interpreter translates a written document into spoken language for immediate understanding, rather than to produce a written document.

Travel Opportunities

Both translators and interpreters can find work that involves travel. For example, translators can work on projects such as travel brochures, and they can work from anywhere in the world. Interpreters may travel too, for instance, liaison or escort interpreters accompany visitors to a foreign country, and travel with them. Travel interpreters are also used by journalists, ambassadors, and tourists.

Travel the world as a translator and work remotely

Being a translator gives you the opportunity to work from anywhere in the world. If you can speak at least two languages fluently, a career as a freelance or location-independent translator could be perfect for you. However, it's important to note that speaking multiple languages does not necessarily make you proficient at translating and writing. Therefore, to become a translator, you will need to gain certain qualifications and skills.

Qualifications and Skills

• Learn a second language: The more languages you speak, the more valuable you are as a translator. Learning a "rare" language that isn't commonly learned as a second language, such as Norwegian or Finnish, can be particularly advantageous.
• Master your mother tongue: It's crucial to have a perfect grasp of your native language to ensure high-quality translations.
• Get a degree or equivalent qualification: While not always necessary, having a degree in Translation or a foreign language can make you more competitive and help you land higher-paying clients.
• Specialize in one or two areas: Most translators become specialists in specific fields, such as medical, legal, marketing, literary, or financial translation. Choosing a subject you are already familiar with can be advantageous.
• Understand cultural nuances: When working as a translator for different nations, it's essential to be well-versed in the cultures of the languages you're working with.

Finding Work

There are numerous online platforms and job sites that connect translators with clients. Some popular options include ProZ.com, translatorsbase.com, and Gengo.com. Additionally, general job sites like Craigslist and Monster occasionally post translation jobs, which tend to have lower competition.

When starting, be prepared to work for little to no pay to gain experience and build your resume. As you gain experience and positive testimonials, you can gradually increase your rates.

Logistics

Working as a location-independent translator offers the freedom to travel and work from anywhere in the world. However, it's important to keep a few things in mind:

• Time zones: When working with clients from different parts of the world, be prepared to be flexible with your working hours to meet deadlines.
• Technology: A laptop, reliable internet connection, and access to online dictionaries and translation tools are essential for receiving, composing, and submitting documents while on the move.
• Security: When working with sensitive information, ensure that you comply with confidentiality agreements and prevent unauthorized access to the data.

Working as a translator and travelling the world can be a rewarding and exciting career for language and travel enthusiasts. With the right skills, qualifications, and tools, you can turn your passion for languages into a profitable and flexible lifestyle.

Qualifications, experience and specialisation are important

Qualifications

To become a successful interpreter, it is essential to have the necessary qualifications. While the specific requirements may vary depending on your location, a bachelor's degree is often preferred or required. This demonstrates your proficiency in at least two languages and provides a solid foundation for your career. Additionally, you may consider pursuing a master's degree to enhance your language skills and set yourself apart from other candidates, especially in competitive fields.

Interpreters can also benefit from obtaining specialised certifications. For example, the American Translators Association (ATA) offers recognised certifications in various language combinations. Other organisations, such as the Certification Commission for Healthcare Interpreters (CCHI) and the National Board of Certification for Medical Interpreters (NBCMI), provide certifications specific to healthcare interpreting. These certifications can enhance your credibility and open up more job opportunities.

Experience

Gaining practical experience is crucial for interpreters. Aspiring interpreters can start by volunteering at hospitals, organisations, or companies to build their skills. Internships, whether paid or unpaid, are another excellent way to gain hands-on experience and create opportunities for future employment. Working as a freelance interpreter or taking on volunteer assignments can also provide valuable experience and help you establish a network of contacts.

Specialisation

Interpreters often specialise in specific fields or industries, such as medical, legal, marketing, literary, or financial interpreting. Specialising in a particular area can make you more attractive to potential clients and employers. For example, if you plan to work in the healthcare field, taking health-related classes and gaining knowledge of medical terminology will be advantageous. Similarly, if you aspire to work in the legal field, understanding legal terminology and procedures is essential.

Additionally, interpreters who work with sign language need to be fluent in sign languages like American Sign Language (ASL) and have a thorough understanding of the cultural aspects associated with them.

In conclusion, qualifications, experience, and specialisation are crucial for interpreters. Obtaining relevant qualifications, gaining practical experience, and specialising in a particular field will enhance your skills, credibility, and employability as an interpreter.

Online resources and marketplaces for translators and interpreters

There are numerous online resources and marketplaces available for translators and interpreters to find work, connect with clients, and develop their skills. Here are some of the most prominent ones:

ProZ

ProZ is one of the most popular and longstanding online communities and marketplaces for freelance translators and interpreters. It has over 1,479,039 registered users, including translators, interpreters, and translation companies, from more than 200 countries. ProZ offers a job board where clients can post their projects, as well as a directory where they can browse and search for language professionals. It also provides various features such as invoicing, forums, and training resources. ProZ has a grading system where translators and interpreters are rated by customers, colleagues, and peers, helping clients assess their suitability before hiring. The basic registration is free, but ProZ also offers paid memberships that provide additional benefits, such as enhanced tools and priority placement in the directories.

Upwork

Upwork is a well-known open marketplace that covers a wide range of services, including translation and interpretation. It has a vast pool of translators and interpreters for various languages and budgets. Clients can either post a job and accept applications or directly reach out to freelancers. Upwork provides tools to help clients vet translators and interpreters, such as reviews, job completion rates, and earnings information. The pricing is negotiated directly with the language professional, and Upwork charges a 5% marketplace fee on top of all payments made to them.

Freelancer

Freelancer is another general-purpose freelance marketplace similar to Upwork, where clients can find translators and interpreters alongside other types of freelancers. It allows both individual freelancers and translation agencies to offer their services. Clients can post jobs and receive applications or directly search for and connect with language professionals. The pricing is negotiated directly with the freelancer, and Freelancer charges a 3% fee on all payments, which is slightly lower than Upwork's fee.

Gengo

Gengo is a blend of a translation agency and a freelance translator marketplace. It provides access to a global network of over 22,000 individual translators. Clients work through the Gengo service rather than creating direct relationships with translators. Gengo offers fixed per-word pricing, making it easier for clients to estimate costs. It has two tiers of translators: Standard and Advanced, with corresponding price ranges. Gengo has already vetted its translators, so clients don't need to spend time on this aspect.

Fiverr

Fiverr is a generic freelance marketplace that includes a large number of translators and interpreters. Unlike some other platforms, Fiverr does not allow clients to post their jobs and receive applications. Instead, freelancers post their services, and clients hire them through those service listings. Fiverr offers a range of pricing options, including very low prices and premium services. There are no extra charges beyond the service provider's listing price, as Fiverr exclusively charges the freelancer.

TranslatorsCafe

TranslatorsCafe is a marketplace and bidding platform exclusive to translation services. It has a large community of over 439,000 registered users. Clients can post jobs or browse the library of registered translators and interpreters. The platform offers search and filter options to find language professionals based on language pairs, physical location, and specializations. TranslatorsCafe is free to use for clients, and it monetizes by charging translators and agencies a membership fee for additional benefits.

TextMaster

TextMaster is a translation agency that offers three tiers of translation rates, with the highest rate of $0.18 for 'pro' translators working in specific industries such as luxury goods, SEO, finance, and legal translation. Translators and interpreters need to get verified and use TextMaster's proprietary CAT tool. While the pay may not be the best for those who don't make it into the 'pro' ranking, it can be a good starting point.

Other Notable Mentions:

• OneHourTranslation.com: One of the oldest online translation agencies, offering a gamified progression system for translators.
• Unbabel: A machine translation post-editing service that pays translators by the word.
• VerbalizeIt: A self-proclaimed human-powered translation agency; translators sign up, take a test, and wait to be notified of suitable jobs.
• TheOpenMic: A publication platform that allows translators and interpreters to create profiles and showcase their expertise.
• TranslationDirectory: A veteran translator portal that allows clients to post translation jobs and offers a wealth of resources like dictionaries and articles for translators.

Frequently asked questions