How to choose the right translator

Working with a translator can be a new development for a number of companies, but collaborating with a professional one can reap a whole host of benefits. Whether it is a marketing campaign to attract interest from abroad, your company’s website or research documents, if it’s worth doing at all, then it’s worth doing well.

Today’s translation industry is very much online, with translators able to often work remotely around the world and still be able to provide the service you need. The fact that they are not recruited in the traditional way of interviewing for an in-house job role, means this lack of face-to-face contact can make it all the more difficult to find the right translator for your project. How can you be sure they are trustworthy? How can you tell whether they are genuinely skilled and reputable?

Following the steps below will stand you in good stead for finding the right the translator for you.

1. Only work with native speakers of the target language

Professional translators only work into their mother tongue. While it’s possible that some translators offer a service both ways, check whether they are indeed genuinely bilingual. For the most part, the most qualified will just work into their native language. They will ensure that both the language and tone of the text resonate with a native, and crucially, your target audience. They will take into account the nuances of the language, idioms, and relay the correct intention of your text.

2. Qualifications

Proven translation qualifications are a must. A degree in the relevant language is a good foundation, but unfortunately falls short of the specific requirements of today’s market. Translation is a skill in its own right and one which needs to be honed. Make sure your translator also has a specific post-graduate qualification in translation, usually a Master’s degree. A qualified translator will have been tested, given feedback to improve their work, and finally awarded a seal of approval. The proof of a good translation is that it sounds like as though it were originally written in the target language, i.e. you don’t realise it is a translation. A foreign language qualification will indicate a degree of linguistic competence but to effectively convey your message to your clients, what you’re after is the specific skill of translation.

3. Experience

Experience within the field of interest to your business/project is vital. The more familiar the translator is with the language of your industry, the better the translation will be. They will understand not only the meaning of the specific terms used, but also the correct terminology to be used in English. Ask to see examples of their work and see for yourself whether their translation style matches your requirements.

4. Membership of a Professional organisation

A translator who is a member of a professional body, such as the Institute for ITI (Translation and Interpreting), demonstrates a commitment to their role. Becoming a fully qualified member of the ITI requires proving a minimum of 3 years’ professional experience, passing a rigorous assessment, proof of qualifications and providing references from clients. Members are required to abide by their Code of Professional Conduct and act in accordance with the principles of honesty and integrity, professional competence and client confidentiality and trust. They are also encouraged to dedicate a reasonable amount of time to continued professional development, keeping both their language skills and their industry knowledge up-to-date. Fortunately, professional bodies have already done a lot of the ground work for you, so use these as a first port of call for finding an accredited translator.

If you follow these tips you’re likely to find yourself in the hands of a good translator: one who is already tried and tested and experienced. The right person will portray your brand and projects fit for your target audience and prove to be an essential asset to your business.