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Poll: Should ProZ.com hold Stammtischs as suggested at www.proz.com/topic/45463?
Thread poster: ProZ.com Staff
ProZ.com Staff
ProZ.com Staff
SITE STAFF
Apr 23, 2006

This forum topic is for the discussion of the poll question "Should ProZ.com hold Stammtischs as suggested at www.proz.com/topic/45463?".

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This forum topic is for the discussion of the poll question "Should ProZ.com hold Stammtischs as suggested at www.proz.com/topic/45463?".

View the poll here

A forum topic will appear each time a new poll is run. For more information, see: http://proz.com/topic/33629
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Csaba Ban
Csaba Ban  Identity Verified
Hungary
Local time: 19:59
Member (2002)
English to Hungarian
+ ...
Stammtisch vs Powwow Apr 23, 2006

How much different would they be from powwows?

 
Sandra C.
Sandra C.
France
Local time: 19:59
English to French
+ ...
more options needed Apr 23, 2006

like: "why not?" or "not sure" or "N/A".

I live in the boonies and sure, why not have Stammtischs... the thing is, I probably would never go to one because I'm too far away from everybody!

So none of the answers suggested apply to me


 
Patricia Rosas
Patricia Rosas  Identity Verified
United States
Local time: 11:59
Spanish to English
+ ...
In memoriam
"Conversation Cafes" Apr 23, 2006

Four years ago, a friend and I organized a "Conversation Cafe" here in Tucson. The idea was for strangers to gather at a cafe and just visit and converse -- the porch-swing, not debate-table, style. It was such a huge hit that at one point, we had 5 different locations, each meeting twice a month, lots of people "holding the space" (leading the get-together), and more than one hundred participating (about 60 regularly). I got burned out, but I think the need for this type of socializing is imp... See more
Four years ago, a friend and I organized a "Conversation Cafe" here in Tucson. The idea was for strangers to gather at a cafe and just visit and converse -- the porch-swing, not debate-table, style. It was such a huge hit that at one point, we had 5 different locations, each meeting twice a month, lots of people "holding the space" (leading the get-together), and more than one hundred participating (about 60 regularly). I got burned out, but I think the need for this type of socializing is important, and if a group with a common interest (languages, translation) wants to try it, all the better.

As far as the person who lives in a remote area goes, we had a group of women in their 70s who regularly drove the 80 miles round-trip just to get some conversation! I'm hoping to move near Nogales (AZ/Sonora, MX), but I'd drive back to Tucson once a month for this.

Unfortunately, I'm burned out on organizing things, so I'm not ready to try to put something together, but I hope someone in my area is...
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Brandis (X)
Brandis (X)
Local time: 19:59
English to German
+ ...
No Stammtisch Apr 23, 2006

This cannot go. Proz.com being a service provider (not an employer) cannot support unionized mentality. For this there are various other activities like, powpows or the moderation (proz.representatives I would say) and the similar. I think this will also lead to other mgmt. technical and legal issues and the site may be limited due to good and healthy reasons. This may be my singled-out opinion. Polls are good the gathering statistical information, but not to build this way of going about it. I ... See more
This cannot go. Proz.com being a service provider (not an employer) cannot support unionized mentality. For this there are various other activities like, powpows or the moderation (proz.representatives I would say) and the similar. I think this will also lead to other mgmt. technical and legal issues and the site may be limited due to good and healthy reasons. This may be my singled-out opinion. Polls are good the gathering statistical information, but not to build this way of going about it. I personally have never seen this functioning amongst freelancers (heads) Best Brandis

[Edited at 2006-04-23 16:02]
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Orla Ryan
Orla Ryan  Identity Verified
Ireland
Local time: 18:59
my experience... Apr 23, 2006

We had something similar in Dublin, along the same lines as Patricia's get-togethers, but after a few months it fizzled out. I did most of the organising... as always, loads of people were interested and promised they'd make it but of course only a handful would ever turn up... I'd be there on my own for least an hour before the first person would turn up. So I said to hell with it, let someone else do it... of course the person I asked to do it never bothered at all. Very annoying

... See more
We had something similar in Dublin, along the same lines as Patricia's get-togethers, but after a few months it fizzled out. I did most of the organising... as always, loads of people were interested and promised they'd make it but of course only a handful would ever turn up... I'd be there on my own for least an hour before the first person would turn up. So I said to hell with it, let someone else do it... of course the person I asked to do it never bothered at all. Very annoying

If a stammtisch were spaced out every quarter or six months, then that would help maintain the momentum. Of course, if people want to get together informally in between the stammtisches, then that's cool.

Any other "official/union" stuff can be left until the official translation association meetings in the various countries or regions, it is not like Proz would be directly involved in that kind of thing.

my 2c

Orla

[Edited at 2006-04-23 16:26]

[Edited at 2006-04-23 16:28]
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Rosa Maria Duenas Rios (X)
Rosa Maria Duenas Rios (X)  Identity Verified
Local time: 14:59
What would be the difference between a Stammtich and a Pow pow? Apr 23, 2006

I read the www.proz.com/topic/45463 thread, and I fail to see how the two gatherings would differ. Of course, it all depends on what the participants want to do and talk about during their gatherings.

I also fail to see in what way a Stammtich implies a "unionized mentality", as Brandis points out. I voted to hear more on the subject, and I would certainly appreciate if someone could answer t
... See more
I read the www.proz.com/topic/45463 thread, and I fail to see how the two gatherings would differ. Of course, it all depends on what the participants want to do and talk about during their gatherings.

I also fail to see in what way a Stammtich implies a "unionized mentality", as Brandis points out. I voted to hear more on the subject, and I would certainly appreciate if someone could answer these two questions.
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Erik Hansson
Erik Hansson  Identity Verified
Germany
Swedish
+ ...
"Proz.com cannot support unionized mentality"? Apr 23, 2006

Brandis wrote:

This cannot go. Proz.com being a service provider (not an employer) cannot support unionized mentality. For this there are various other activities like, powpows or the moderation (proz.representatives I would say) and the similar. I think this will also lead to other mgmt. technical and legal issues and the site may be limited due to good and healthy reasons. This may be my singled-out opinion. Polls are good the gathering statistical information, but not to build this way of going about it. I personally have never seen this functioning amongst freelancers (heads) Best Brandis

[Edited at 2006-04-23 16:02]


Could you please develop this further. I haven't got a clue what you are talking about.

Erik

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Ricki Farn
Ricki Farn
Germany
Local time: 19:59
English to German
Difference Stammtisch/Powwow Apr 23, 2006

The difference is that a Stammtisch (by the German meaning of the word in any case) is a regular and fairly non-committal thing, like, e.g. "all interested amateur pigeon breeders of Frinton are invited to meet at the Duck and Grouse pub every other Friday" or whatever. I don't really see why anyone would have to do much organizing above and beyond publicising the location and timing. A powwow is a one-off thing, often with a certain amount of content planning.
I'd attend - given that the
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The difference is that a Stammtisch (by the German meaning of the word in any case) is a regular and fairly non-committal thing, like, e.g. "all interested amateur pigeon breeders of Frinton are invited to meet at the Duck and Grouse pub every other Friday" or whatever. I don't really see why anyone would have to do much organizing above and beyond publicising the location and timing. A powwow is a one-off thing, often with a certain amount of content planning.
I'd attend - given that the classic definition includes the freedom not to show up when time or energy don't permit
Ricki
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Enrique Cavalitto
Enrique Cavalitto  Identity Verified
Argentina
Local time: 15:59
Member (2006)
English to Spanish
On Stammtischs Apr 23, 2006

Brandis wrote:

This cannot go. Proz.com being a service provider (not an employer) cannot support unionized mentality.


The suggested Stammtisch idea has no relationship with the development of an unionized mentality. The aim is meeting for social gathering and networking opportunities.

Csaba Ban wrote:
Stammtisch vs Powwow

How much different would they be from powwows?


Similar because both would be informal gatherings organized through ProZ.com, and open in nature.

Different because a Stammtisch would be a local and repetitive event, probably creating and identity of its own.

A powwow is a non-repetitive event, you call one, people come, they go, and that's it. A Stammtisch could get a name, develop an identity, a culture...

I find the idea challenging and very interesting.

Enrique


 
Sam Berner
Sam Berner  Identity Verified
Australia
Local time: 04:59
Member (2003)
English to Arabic
+ ...
Brisbane here Apr 24, 2006

Enrique Cavalitto wrote:

The suggested Stammtisch idea has no relationship with the development of an unionized mentality. The aim is meeting for social gathering and networking opportunities.


I have no idea how a pint of good beer - or a few Turkish coffees - plus excellent comapny and interesting conversation can make us into a union! I wish it was that easy.

We have a small group of translators in Brisbane who meet irregularly, but often, for a Talkfest at one of the houses of members of the group. It is purely social and lots of fun.

Not to mention that the QLD AUSIT committee has a lunch with almost every second meeting, and definitely after each workshop to which anyone willing is welcome. Has not unionized us as yet, but definitely made us aware of lots of common threads and interests.

So, Brandis, please explain what is running through your head? And what is this about Proz not being an employer? It is a networking board, and networking is its main function. It isn't as if Henri will jump out of the PC screen and order a Stammtisch in some place in the name of Proz; Proz is us and we are Proz, and it is us, the little-photos-next-to-a-quote-virtual-people-somewhere-in-cyberspace that will organize the event. If this then leads to stronger networks, to teams, to better bargaining or whatever, fine and good. Often it only leads to lots of laughter and a hangover the next day.


 
Rebekka Groß (X)
Rebekka Groß (X)  Identity Verified
Local time: 18:59
English to German
Edinburgh Translators Stammtisch Apr 24, 2006

I had the idea of organising a regular meet of translators and interpreters a long time ago and when a German translator mentioned he was off to his translators' Stammtisch one day, I decided to finally take action.

I chose the term Stammtisch because I am German and the term has certain connotations for me and I didn't have to try and think up a name in English that might need to be explained anyway. Also, with proz.com being an international community and one type of events being
... See more
I had the idea of organising a regular meet of translators and interpreters a long time ago and when a German translator mentioned he was off to his translators' Stammtisch one day, I decided to finally take action.

I chose the term Stammtisch because I am German and the term has certain connotations for me and I didn't have to try and think up a name in English that might need to be explained anyway. Also, with proz.com being an international community and one type of events being called 'powwow', which is not an English word either, I thought it would add to the spirit of cultural diversity on the site.

If you'd like to know more about what the Edinburgh Translators' Stammtisch is all about, please go to www.proz.com/topic/45463 where you'll find an FAQ style introduction. But in a nutshell, it is a regular, informal event for translators and interpreters, which is as much about socialising as it is about networking.

What is the difference between a Stammtisch and a powwow?

The German word Stammtisch literally means "regulars' table". In Germany, many people attend Stammtisch, many of which take place weekly and are a means for informal socialising.

As Enrique has already explained, Stammtischs are local and repetitive events whereas powwows are one-off events often with large numbers of people attending.

The Edinburgh Stammtisch has not gone for long but already there are about half a dozen of us who attend it every month, work and other commitments permitting. And after having met a few times, we're starting to get to know each other better and are trying to keep the 4th Wednesday of the month free to attend. However, this does not mean, our Stammtisch is becoming cliquey and exclusive. On the contrary! We're looking forward to meeting new people and its purpose is summarised as: "Monthly meeting of translators and interpreters from Edinburgh and surrounding areas. All welcome – whether you are here on holiday/business or live in Scotland all year round!" There actually is a Stammtisch this week Wednesday - why not come along to see for yourselves if you're in the area: http://www.proz.com/powwow/840

Now that it is up and running, there really isn't that much organising left to do. I simply suggest a powwow for the next Stammtisch, enter the date, time and the above mentioned info and that's it.

What I personally enjoy is meeting other translators on a regular basis in the real world and not just in the virtual world of the internet. Don't get me wrong, it is this virtual world that has enabled me to meet these other translators but having built up a relationship with the other Stammtisch attendees makes it easier to get in touch and ask advice about any translation related issues, to let off steam or simply to have a chat.

I like meeting once a month and have this date in my diary just like any other activities I do on a regular basis.
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Fiona Paterson
Fiona Paterson  Identity Verified
United Kingdom
Local time: 18:59
Member (2006)
Russian to English
+ ...
Regular fixture Apr 24, 2006

I've been going along to the Edinburgh Stammtisch, and thoroughly enjoy it. It's now a fixture in my diary, and there would have to be a good reason to stop me going! There seems to be a small group who regularly attend, which will hopefully lead to the Stammtisch continuing in the long term. I've met other translators, with whom I now have contact outside the Stammtisch. It's great as a social event, as well as helping me professionally. And of course I like the selection of beer at the T... See more
I've been going along to the Edinburgh Stammtisch, and thoroughly enjoy it. It's now a fixture in my diary, and there would have to be a good reason to stop me going! There seems to be a small group who regularly attend, which will hopefully lead to the Stammtisch continuing in the long term. I've met other translators, with whom I now have contact outside the Stammtisch. It's great as a social event, as well as helping me professionally. And of course I like the selection of beer at the Travers (they've even got Baltika...). Long may it continue!!!Collapse


 
Rebecca Lowery
Rebecca Lowery  Identity Verified
United Kingdom
Local time: 18:59
French to English
I think it's a brilliant idea! Apr 24, 2006

In fact I met up for coffee the other day with another translator and we were talking about how nice it is to socialise with other people in the same or similar profession as you. Not only does this increase your circle of friends but it is also a great networking opportunity. My friend was actually telling me about how regional members of the ITI organise walks and I was thinking of contacting my regional ITI co-ordinator to see if I can join in but if Proz is thinking of doing something simila... See more
In fact I met up for coffee the other day with another translator and we were talking about how nice it is to socialise with other people in the same or similar profession as you. Not only does this increase your circle of friends but it is also a great networking opportunity. My friend was actually telling me about how regional members of the ITI organise walks and I was thinking of contacting my regional ITI co-ordinator to see if I can join in but if Proz is thinking of doing something similar I may hang fire!Collapse


 
Rebekka Groß (X)
Rebekka Groß (X)  Identity Verified
Local time: 18:59
English to German
more info on the Edinburgh Stammtisch Apr 24, 2006

For those of you who want the inside story, you may want to read the Stammtisch report from February: http://www.proz.com/?sp=event/powwow_reports_view&powwow_id=823

Here are some quotes from attendees:

"As a new member I received a warm welcome and lots of encouragement and useful information. Prior to the Stammtisch my fighting spirit had begun t
... See more
For those of you who want the inside story, you may want to read the Stammtisch report from February: http://www.proz.com/?sp=event/powwow_reports_view&powwow_id=823

Here are some quotes from attendees:

"As a new member I received a warm welcome and lots of encouragement and useful information. Prior to the Stammtisch my fighting spirit had begun to weaken, well, now it's back in full strength." (Beate Petersen)

"I really enjoyed last night - this Stammtisch is a great idea." (Birgit Hecker)

"I've attended both Stammtischs so far, and it's been great to meet fellow translators - I'm looking forward to the next one!" (Fiona Paterson)

I even had the courage to post some pictures from the March Stammtisch and hope to post some more after Wednesday.
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