Interviews with German translators from around the world
Wouldn’t you prefer to buy your translation from someone you know?
Meet German translation professionals from around the world, find out about the person behind the service, and get the most suitable translator for your translation.
Being a freelance translator can seem a lonely business.
Meet some of your colleagues, listen to what they have to say about their life as a freelancer, and pick up some useful tips, advice and inspiration!
Ever wondered what life is really like as a German translator?
Ever wanted to “meet” the real people behind all those professional looking profiles and agency websites? Or find out how your services compare with those of your colleagues?
Translation can be a rather “virtual” business. Freelance translators work from home, communicating online with their clients and colleagues. How many translators do you know personally? How often do you meet them and talk about work?
Translation is a changing industry, and getting rapidly more professional. We all need to keep our fingers on the pulse and be aware of the changes going on around us. You may be wondering how you compare with the crowd.
So apart from attending industry events and following discussions on social networks, enjoy this chance to widen your horizons by hearing directly “from the horse’s mouth”.
Translators come from all walks of life. Some have professional experience in other fields before moving into translation. Others start directly after qualifying in languages at universities. And many are graduates of the “university of life”, benefiting from the experience of living in a variety of countries.
So what better way to discover more than to meet other German translators?
...around the world – freelancers, translators who’ve started their own agencies, and others working in translation departments.
I’ve asked them how they started out in the profession, and what motivates them to get up every day. How they got to where they are today, how they view their professional lives, and a few insights into the future of translation as a career.
Plus lots of been-there, done-that tips for anyone just starting out in German translation and trying to get established.
They've given some helpful tips on:
I hope you’ll find information here to encourage you.
We all come from different backgrounds, and there are many, equally valid, routes into translation. But you'll discover there are a few common practices which help make professional translators successful….
If you’re an agency or an end customer and looking to buy German translation services, I hope these interviews will also be of use.
There are thousands of Google ads for translation agencies, and hundreds of freelancers listed on translator portals. Finding the right translator for your needs can feel overwhelming.
It’s always nice to know more about the person behind the profile and CV bullet points. I hope these interviews will provide you with some useful leads.
Each interview comes with the translator's particular
specialisms and services, plus links and contacts for getting in touch.
And here's my essential guide to all the other things you should consider when buying professional translation services.
I’ve very much enjoyed meeting all these translators. I’d like to take this opportunity to thank them for taking time out from their busy schedules to provide us all with insights and information (and some great translation jokes!) which I hope you’ll find useful.
And if you're a translator and would like to be interviewed for this series, just get in touch.
Joanna
German Translation Tips & Resources
Joanna Scudamore-Trezek
I'm a German to English translator living and working in Vienna, Austria. I turn German texts into clear and accessible English, allowing clients to present their stories, ideas and information to a completely new audience. My business and marketing clients rely on me to get their message across clearly and effectively. How can I help you today?