7 things to consider before choosing a translator
When you need to translate documents, whether professional or private, forget the reflex of online translators, often unreliable! Rather, call on a professional translator, who is much more competent and who can provide you with quality work. Before committing with him, read the following, so that your collaboration is going as smoothly as possible.
A translator is an expert in a field
It is usually confined to translating texts from a single sector of activity, which makes him a specialist of the subject. The translation can only be of quality because it masters a technical language that requires the use of specific words and not approximate terms.
Mastery of the language
Texts to be translated into Swedish? Even if you want to use a translator, you can choose one whose mother tongue it is . Since it masters the subtleties of the language, the approximations will be less and the mistakes avoided: positive for your readers.
Ask about his experience
Before starting a collaboration, find out about the work done previously by the professional you have selected. To get an idea of his work, ask him what missions he has already done, the clients for whom he worked, and see if he can show you some examples of translations done.
Communication
During your first contact, introduce yourself, as well as your activity, so that the translator knows exactly who he is dealing with . Explain also the purpose of the text (website, working document, etc.) on which you want it to look, as well as the audience for whom it is intended.
Throughout the work he will do, do not hesitate to contact him regularly to see how things are progressing.
If you can, meet him face-to-face, this will allow you to avoid some misunderstandings , especially when finalizing the texts.
A clear original document
The texts to be translated that you provide to your designated expert must not contain any ambiguities. Because if they are already difficult to understand in their original language, it will be difficult for the translator to do his job and provide you with a result that meets your expectations.
Translations into a specific file
Suppose the text you provide is for a PowerPoint. In this case, ask the person who transposes it in the desired language to provide you with his work in an identical file, with the same layouts as the initial document sent. This will save you time from copying and pasting.
How long for what cost?
Of course, the sooner the translator with whom you have chosen to collaborate will provide you with his production, the more you will be satisfied. Before signing with your service provider, see the time it takes to do his work , to see if it suits you, and avoid any disappointment thereafter.
Also upstream, find out how much you will have to pay . So, ask him to provide you with a complete quote. As you can imagine, the more you will give him a heavy workload, the more his tariff will increase.