Starting a new translation project can be thrilling or overwhelming. Mostly both. Whether you’re just starting or looking to streamline your approach, this guide walks you through the essential questions every translator should ask before accepting a job.
Too many translators jump into projects without clarity. This not only affects quality, but your peace of mind, productivity, and client relationships. Asking the right questions upfront means setting yourself up for excellence every time.
There are many ways to approach a new project, or even a new final client.
Of course, we could just plunge into the mix of the original text, unknown terminology, oceans of virtual ink that seem to overwhelm our initial steps, and more.
Nevertheless, after a few years in the business, instead of using blunt tools, we could sharpen our insight and approach new challenges with the proper attitude, mindset, and intellectual equipment.
The following includes several tips to guide your experience in terms of new translation endeavors and day-to-day practice.
Before You Accept Any Assignment, Ask Yourself:
- After careful reading of the text, is this material within my field of expertise?
Do I feel comfortable working on this subject matter? The best way to work well and deliver quality is to be faithful to what your mind and heart align with. - Is the original text editable with any of the CAT tools I use?
Am I proficient enough with that tool to handle the job smoothly? If the file isn’t editable, it’s reasonable to ask the client for a workable version. - Are the contract terms acceptable?
- Is the deadline realistic?
If it’s not, try to negotiate, always professionally. - Do the rates reflect the value of the task?
Establish your own pricing. If that’s not possible, negotiate smartly. Never sell yourself short; it leads to long-term damage to your self-worth and financial stability. - Will this project enrich my knowledge or expand my expertise?
- Will it help raise my yearly translation volume?
- Does it align with my financial goals?
- If not financially ideal, could it help secure future work with this client?
Long-term strategy can sometimes outweigh short-term payout. - If most answers are “yes”? Accept and enjoy.
With experience, you’ll be able to scan and answer these questions intuitively, but having this checklist close can sharpen your instincts and help you avoid burnout or underpaid chaos.
General Tip: Don’t Take Anything for Granted
It’s tempting to rely on a few longstanding clients, but things can change. Always keep a few new leads or collaborations simmering.
During quieter spells, keep your edge sharp: read, study, attend events, and update your tools. This isn’t a hustle, it’s maintenance of your craft.
Translation Process Tips
- Conscientious reading of the source text
- Immersive reading in both source and target languages
- Targeted terminology research
- Use of glossaries and dictionaries, print still has its charm
- Focus like this is the only task that exists when you sit down to work
QA Process Tips
- Full read-through of the translation, comparing it to the source
- Resolve any remaining doubts or ambiguities
- Double-check specialized terminology
- Verify tags with your CAT tool
- Run spellcheck in your CAT tool and Word
- Use a QA software tool (yours or the client’s)
- Final format check before delivery
The Big IFs
These moments matter. Ask yourself:
- If this is a test, are you giving work that gets you hired regularly?
- If this is a new client, are you demonstrating why you’re worth keeping?
- If it’s a past client, are you staying top of mind for future work?
A Simple Formula to Grow:
Projects ↑ + Wordcount ↑ + Profit ↑ = Career Health
Build a business plan for the year. Be specific, include numbers, percentages, and goals.
Bottom Line
Never lose sight of why you chose this path. Translation isn’t just a service, it’s a craft, a mindset, and, for many of us, a calling.
Are you navigating your early translation years or leveling up your practice?
Let’s connect, whether you need guidance, collaboration, or just a second pair of eyes.
Visit: www.pulsewriting.com
Work with me. Grow with me.
