Most beginning translators I talk to have similar goals for their nascent freelance businesses; they currently have a full-time job and they want to start freelancing part time, then gradually ramp up to full time freelancing as their work volume increases. Lately, I've come across a few beginning … [Read more...] about Very part-time freelancing
Freelancing
Avoiding beginner's mistakes
Update to this post: Make sure to read the comments for more excellent tips from experienced translators! Today is the first day of the winter session of the online course I teach for beginning translators. It's an occasion that always prompts me to think of the first day I thought of myself as a … [Read more...] about Avoiding beginner's mistakes
What do you want to accomplish this year?
Like Glenn over at Yndigo, I'm not a huge fan of New Year's resolutions. Mostly, I think that most of what we resolve (to lose weight, exercise more, swear off the snooze button, etc.) falls into the category of "shoulds": things we think we need to do even though we don't really want to. It's no … [Read more...] about What do you want to accomplish this year?
Perspectives on 2009
Thoughts on Translation is back from some computer-free vacation time (the skiing was fantastic, thanks for asking!) and looking forward to the possibilities that the new year always offers. It's interesting to read and hear what other translators have to say about the current economic climate and … [Read more...] about Perspectives on 2009
What can a translator outsource?
It's about time to start thinking about business goals for 2009, and efficiency is always high on my list. One topic that I often think about but have never really acted on is outsourcing. To hear books like The 4-Hour Work Week (imagine yourself in that hammock on the cover!) tell it, outsourcing … [Read more...] about What can a translator outsource?