GUIDE FOR FREELANCE TRANSLATORS BEGINNERS

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.

Build a network of freelance translators

A good translator is not isolated. It is part of communities (online or outside) that allow it to stay abreast of the latest developments. Sometimes you'll need help, advice, or just read an article you wouldn't have found alone. Once again, LinkedIn, Proz and TranslatorsCafé will be useful. Also read a few blogs about freelance translator