However, they can
be useful to start getting your first positive notes on a platform. But
they must be limited to this and cannot be the core of your freelance
translation activity.
On the other hand,
voluntary translation projects for associations are much more rewarding and
profitable in the long run. Of course, you will not be paid, but this
translation and interpretation work will look good on your CV, in addition to
being useful to society.
However, not being
paid for these translations, do not commit more than reason. Save enough
time to grow your professional translation business.
Some examples of volunteer translation projects: Permondo, several projects on tousbenevoles.org.
A freelance translator is often a self-employed entrepreneur
Important need to
be credible and above all in good standing with the law: register your activity
as an independent translator. You have the choice between different legal
forms for your company (SARL, individual company...). But the vast
majority of freelance translators are self-entrepreneurs (now called micro-entrepreneurs).
This has the advantage of greatly simplifying your
procedures (you can declare yourself online). You will find many resources
on the internet to shed light on this legal regime. Official sources
include the self-employed section of CCI.fr and the official us.S. self-employed portal.
Save enough to last at least 3 months
Don't embark on
the freelancing adventure without having a financial safety mattress. As
has been said, building a freelance translator business takes time. Three
months of savings available is a minimum.
This is why it is recommended to prepare and start your
translation activity before you can even devote yourself fully to it. For
example, if you are a student or have another job, don't wait until you are
100% available to enter the French translation market.
Building your
brand and your customer base takes time, but it will be your best
assets. On top of that, even an experienced translator will experience
full periods and off-peak periods.
Be organized
Being an independent translator also means being an
entrepreneur, a marketer, an editor, an accountant... Nothing should be
overlooked, otherwise we will find ourselves overwhelmed by
events. Our few organizational rules can help.
Don't push back
tasks that don't seem directly related to translation, such as
accounting. It's unpleasant to do, but it's even more unpleasant if you're
late.
Don't wait until
you're in a rough patch to promote yourself. It is a time-consuming task,
an action undertaken today may not bring its profits in several months.
For the self-employed, productivity is directly linked to
income. So it's usefulto learn how to improve your productivity and ultimatelyimprove your income.
