In the past few weeks, I've spoken with a few freelancers who would like to work with direct clients but are afraid that they won't get paid. One commented that she really enjoys working with agencies because of being able to check Payment Practices or a similar resource in order to determine the … [Read more...] about Ensuring payment from direct clients
Clients
Responding to a request for quote
When you receive an "out of the blue" request for a quote from a potential translation client, what's the best next step? Is it more advantageous to call the client, e-mail them, ask for more information or send them a rate sheet...or something else entirely? The beauty of impromptu inquiries from … [Read more...] about Responding to a request for quote
Theories about direct clients
Recently, a reader posted this comment on my Wrapping up 2009 post: "I just wonder how one goes about getting direct clients. It seems ideal, but it also seems like a hurdle to get over, that many of us have not learned how to do." I think that a lot of translators feel this way: they'd love to work … [Read more...] about Theories about direct clients
Two posts that translation clients should read
For anyone who's a translation buyer, here are two excellent blog posts on what makes a good client. Ryan Ginstrom's Five practices of agencies that get it gives five specific examples of how his agency clients have impressed him. I agree with these wholeheartedly; especially the feedback piece. … [Read more...] about Two posts that translation clients should read
End of year gifts for clients and colleagues
It's that time again... the gift basket catalogs are arriving by the armload, reminding us that it's time to thank our clients and colleagues for their business and support over the past year. What's the best way to do this? Better to go traditional or creative? High-end or fairly basic? The answer … [Read more...] about End of year gifts for clients and colleagues