As we have previously briefly touched on in one of our blog posts, there are differences between working as a freelancer and working at a translation agency. Before getting yourself into any type of work, the most important thing to do is: research, research and research! Learn everything there is to know about your every option and see what works best for you.
So, how about getting the inside scoop on what it’s like working at a translation agency?
Learning Every Day
If you are a young and inexperienced translator, it might be a good idea to try and find a job at a translation agency. You might think you know it all, but you are (probably) not right. In fact, even the most experienced translators learn something new every time they take on a new project. One of the best things about this job is that it’s never boring. You are constantly improving! Finding a proficient mentor at the beginning of your career is crucial since it will build a foundation for your further development in the business. Working at a translation agency is invaluable when it comes to learning the ropes of the industry.
In addition, having someone to talk to and discuss your translating problems can be amazing! It’s true what they say about two heads being better than one. It’s always easier to bounce ideas off someone, so having colleagues who are ready to tackle some serious translating problems with you can mean the world. And finding a solution with the help of a colleague and a friend feels great.
It’s Never Boring
If you have problems with self-motivation and organization, working at a translation agency should be your choice. No matter what, you have your working hours and something to do at all times. If you usually have problems with procrastination, you will easily overcome that issue. Also, there is no need for you to play the role of a project manager, marketer, client manager etc. You don’t have to worry about payments, taxation and pension plans. You are a part of the team as a translator and your co-workers take care of other business segments. Freelancing, on the other hand, means that all aspects of business fall on your shoulders. This does have its own advantages/benefits, but if you do not feel comfortable taking on that amount of responsibility, a translation agency could be a way to go.
Financial Benefits
This also implies that, at a translation agency, you have steady income. Why would you worry whether you will have enough work throughout the month or, on the other end of the spectrum, whether you will have too many translation projects to do, which comes with working long hours, lack of sleep, concentration and a non-existent social life. Steady income means you’ll be getting an amount of money you can count on every month, under any circumstances.
And Best of All…
Camaraderie! By far the best thing about working at a translation agency are your colleagues. If you are lucky enough to work with a group of amazing people, going to work will be a piece of cake. I am fortunate enough to work at Sinonim, which, apart from being an incredible business opportunity, consists of people who make work a breeze, regardless of the amount of work that needs to be done.
Also, you can check our Instagram account for more tips and tricks about working at a translation agency.
There you have it. Hopefully, this will help you decide on the direction you want to take your career in. Good luck!
