The job of a sworn translator is usually associated with prestige. No wonder – such a person has public trust and not only possesses vast linguistic knowledge. Sworn translators are also experts on many other fields covered by the translated texts, primarily law and economy. Many Germanists, both experienced…
Often invisible, yet still present during important political, scientific, sport and cultural events. An interpreter needs to boast a few key characteristics, such as nerves of steel and broad knowledge about the world. And, obviously, a perfect command of at least two languages is a must. Simultaneous interpreter: what kind…
Living in the world of instant solutions, where most of us expect spectacular results, we give little thought to all the processes that stand behind successful order completion. Even though it might seem that translations are perfect for introverts, a closer look at the long way to success proves that this common conception is wrong. Is there really only one person that stands between a client and a great translation – just a translator? The moment our client submits an enquiry, a whole process that involves up to a dozen people is launched. Translation seemingly has nothing in common with team sports; the ultimate success, however, is usually a combination of harmonious work of linguists, managers and consulants. A project coordinator, who also relays priceless information from the client to other professionals, supervises the whole process. The coordinator’s duties include text quotation and determining the deadline for a given order, as well as contact with the person ordering the service. As soon as our client accepts the price and the proposed lead time, the task is handled by project managers. Who handles the translation? The next stage comprises selecting a team of professionals who are best qualified to work on a given text. This is a challenge for project managers who perfectly know the strengths and weaknesses of their linguists. This approach ensures that medical texts are handled by translators specialising in a given field, while complex legal contracts are entrusted to professionals that effortlessly use legalese and boast extensive knowledge within this area. Depending on the scope of services chosen by the client, the complete translation will either return to the project coordinator – who will send it to the client – or be submitted for proofreading and editing. Additional linguistic services At this stage, our proofreaders remove any spelling mistakes and potential linguistic errors. After all, we’re only human and we happen to make mistakes too; that’s where a second person and a fresh look come in…
There aren’t many types of translation that spark discussions as heated as those regarding literary works. Partly because the target group is extensive, partly because it’s so easy to voice a critical opinion about them. Numerous scientific works and conferences were devoted to the issue of all desired characteristics…
Many students of philology and related careers, as well as people fluent in foreign languages, dream of becoming a freelance translator in the future. Such a person makes translations for translation agencies, companies or private clients. A freelance translator usually works in the comfort of their own home, with…
The examination is the very last stage of the journey to become a sworn translator of English. One could think that graduates of language studies have it easier and should pass the dreaded exam with flying colours. Still, theoretical knowledge acquired at the university often does not equal the ability to effectively prepare specialist translations. Even the graduates of the most popular English studies admit that limited availability of reliable information and textbooks does not make it any easier to find one’s own path and to become a sworn translator of English. Even though there’s a plethora of factors that influence exam results, including broad general knowledge and expertise regarding specialist lexicon, it is the experience itself that remains the key ingredient to reach one’s goals. So: there are just as many paths to follow as there are candidates. Some necessary skills As we’re trying to delve into the details on how to become a sworn Russian, Italian or Norwegian translator, we should always remember about the solid foundation, in this case composed of theoretical knowledge. That’s where textbooks and studies prepared by specialists contributing to the exams come in handy. What might be surprising is the fact that those preparing to become sworn translators of German may find it easier to seek reliable advice on passing the exam. At the same time, one should also hone their interpreting skills given that the exam is made up of two parts. During the course of their education, many candidates eagerly work at university translation agencies where they can handle real documents and gain their first professional experience. The pay might be low, but the experience is priceless. A wide range of courses and post-graduate studies is also available. During the classes students gain an in-depth view of problematic issues in specialist translation. However, there is one issue where the candidates and those who already passed the exam struggle to find common ground: few of the experienced translators willingly share their…
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