A freelance translator is unlikely to boast success immediately, as it takes time to build up experience. In fact, it involves years of learning and working with text in order to reach a successful outcome. It is difficult to shortcut when it comes to translations and there are no keys that will allow instant access to success as a translator.
There are some things you can do to help you on the road to be a successful translator. The first thing is to get qualified as a translator through undertaking an advanced degree followed by a professional certificate in translation. Certification may not necessarily be required but it is a good way to begin. The second stage is to ensure you have proof of your competency in your second language. This can be in the form of a formal test. The third stage is gaining experience and this could mean at first acting as an interpreter for people in need. Maybe a new immigrant needs help with difficult parts of the language when it comes to translating.
Once you have started to build up a portfolio of your German translation achievements you can start marketing your skills as a translator. You will be surprised how many different organisations you can approach who need translation services. These include police stations, law firms and your local hospital.
You can also start up your own website where you can showcase some of your translation achievements. You can list your rates for the services you offer as most translators work on a freelance basis rather than being tied to one company.
As you move forward you may find that you have become more specialised in certain translation areas and you are familiar with terms related to particular industries as an English German translator. This will benefit your ability to get German English translation work too. Learning the language of specific industries makes you an expert compared to other translators which offers you more openings with less competition.
