Translation Agency Tips: #7 You’ve been offered a translation job by the client. What should you do next?

You’ve been offered a new translation job. Great news! Let’s start working on it! The first thing to do is to make sure that you’re comfortable with the subject matter and deadline. Read the document all the way through and try to think of any potential issues with formatting. Is everything clear in the source document? Is all of the text legible?

Next, make sure you have all the materials you need to do a good job. Have you translated a similar document for this client before? Are you aware of what the client’s requirements are? It is very important to think about this before getting the translation started. Check with the client if there are any particular instructions on style or tone. And don’t be worried about asking these questions – doing this will ensure you have a clear idea of what the client wants from the outset.

As you proceed with the translation job, queries may crop up. You may need to clarify these with your client to make sure your translation perfectly reflects the source text. We will talk about dealing with queries in greater depth in a later blog, but most of the times you’ll be able to answer your own queries by doing a bit of research. This will save you time and avoid delays in delivering.

Another thing to consider is checking your emails regularly, and/or being reachable by phone when you’re translating a document for your client. The fact that you’ve been offered a job, you’ve received your PO and all the materials to work on doesn’t necessarily mean that you don’t need to speak to your client until the deadline. In fact, often a client will require changes to be made to the source text you’re working on. We obviously understand this is not an ideal situation, but it does happen and it’s good to be aware that this could happen!

Working closely with your client is possible even from a distance and it’s always the best way to make your business relationship work effectively and efficiently. At Atlas we do appreciate collaboration and help from our suppliers.

Let’s look forward to the next assignment!