I was no longer deterred by the fact that I had no experience or referral to back me up. All I needed was one client whom I would do a great job and was willing to be used as a future reference. Months later, I gained my first client.

I've learned that translation agency is the best way to go. Thus I've sent out introductory letters, briefly explaining about my service and qualifications, and direct them to my site for further information. Major companies or organizations often do not advertise their need for translators, let alone a translator for an uncommon language such as Indonesian. I also believe that, in general, they're nervous in hiring individual translators directly.

Translation is foreign - it is one of those rare occupations where people do not understand what we do. How could they evaluate our work if they don't understand the language? With translation agencies, generally, they either have or hire an additional person, usually another translator to specifically proofread or edit our work. It's a win-win situation - for the company who needs quality control, the agency who needs translators to do the work, and the translator who needs the translation agency to find the work.

The process would usually involve an RFQ (Request for Quote) by the agency via e-mail or phone, acceptance of work by the translator through a job order, turning in the work (usually as an e-mail attachment) and bill the agency with an invoice. That's it.

Here's the kicker - a lot of translation agencies don't even bother to check for references. The main reason is because translation is very deadline-oriented. When people need the service, they are frequently working against really tight deadline or in a time crunch. All they need is a guarantee that the translator can turn in quality work on time.

From time to time, I still e-mail a few letters out to whenever I think someone might need my service or update old clients when there is a significant change. Once in awhile, I answer questions for people who need a couple of words translated or give advices for free. Who knows what this might lead to? Besides, it's rewarding to help people whenever I can.

Translation is not a stable job - the work fluctuates greatly. And it can be stressful working past midnight to meet a deadline. I don't think we can ever rely on it as a primary source of income, but it can be a nice supplement. It can be just what you need to afford those extras in life.

If you are proficient in more than one language, there is a market out there that needs your service. Go for it! There is no start-up cost, it's easy to set up and it's risk-free. You are an expert because of your specialty. Put forth the effort.

I wish you the best in your future translation endeavors.

Nathalia Aryani hailed from Jakarta, Indonesia, to California State University, Fresno in January 1995. She is a freelance translator, editor and proofreader. She is also the author of "Passing Classes with Flying Colors - and More." She currently resides in Sacramento, California.

http://nathbiz.freeyellow.com/
http://www.virtualbookworm.com/passingclasses.html

Written by: Nathalia Aryani