Translation - art & business » Money matters »
Pointers for a newbie?
Thread poster: Breagha (X)
Breagha (X)
Breagha (X)
Local time: 09:18
English to Danish
+ ...
Jan 23, 2009

I'm studying English, and would like to spice up my income a bit, translating. Most people here seem to have some really impressive CVs, though, and I'm a little uncertain whether I'd be out of my depth. So first pointer would be if I even belong here, heh.

Secondly, I've looked at some jobs that I would be able to undertake, but I always stop short, when I get to quote. What should I ask for per word? I'm thorough, and I love the language, so I work with it when I start translating... See more
I'm studying English, and would like to spice up my income a bit, translating. Most people here seem to have some really impressive CVs, though, and I'm a little uncertain whether I'd be out of my depth. So first pointer would be if I even belong here, heh.

Secondly, I've looked at some jobs that I would be able to undertake, but I always stop short, when I get to quote. What should I ask for per word? I'm thorough, and I love the language, so I work with it when I start translating to or from English, but I don't yet have a degree, and I use no other tools than dictionaries, internet, reference points, and the people I translate for. On one hand, I know I'm not yet as good as the professionals, and on the other I don't want to put too low a price as I see people here being angry about undercutters.

Obviously, I'm completely new at this, and any and all pointers regarding money issues and generally setting up business would be very appreciated. ▲ Collapse
 
Penelope Ausejo
Penelope Ausejo  Identity Verified
Spain
Local time: 09:18
English to Spanish
+ ...
Search the forums Jan 24, 2009

Hi Breagha,

Please search the forums, you will find lots of information for newbies.

Regarding the rates, I don't know your combination (English into Danish) but look up for Danish translators and find what they charge from their profiles. That might be of help.

I have also sent you an e-mail with some information.

Have a nice weekend
 
Breagha (X)
Breagha (X)
Local time: 09:18
English to Danish
+ ...
TOPIC STARTER
Thanks :) Jan 24, 2009

Thanks a lot for the very helpful email, it put some things into perspective I hadn't considered yet

And probably saved me a lot of agony
 
Viktoria Gimbe
Viktoria Gimbe  Identity Verified
Canada
Local time: 03:18
English to French
+ ...
Spicing up your income? Jan 24, 2009

Without getting into any detail, I would just like to point out that translation is one of those professions where it takes years to be a full-fledged professional. Wanting to spice up your income is a good idea, but I don't think that translation is a good way to go about it.

Learning to translate is time-intensive, and then marketing your services is also very demanding.

If you are interested in building a career over the years, go for it. But if you are looking for a... See more
Without getting into any detail, I would just like to point out that translation is one of those professions where it takes years to be a full-fledged professional. Wanting to spice up your income is a good idea, but I don't think that translation is a good way to go about it.

Learning to translate is time-intensive, and then marketing your services is also very demanding.

If you are interested in building a career over the years, go for it. But if you are looking for a short term solution to get some extra revenue, I think you might as well look elsewhere. Translation requires a whole lot more than speaking a second language. ▲ Collapse
 


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