How to really go Freelance professionally.

James

Hello everyone, my name is James. I am really interested in starting off a career as a Freelance Translator. I have had training in business administration and accounting (I imagine a specialisation in these areas is recommendable)

I also have a diploma in Philosophy and I have a good literary base both in classical and contemporary literature.

I have done volunteer translations for almost a year and a few professional projects (Spanish-> English)

I can set out about 25 hours weekly for my freelance translations career. I can't afford to go full time yet until I can get a steady flow of clients and income from translations.

How do I begin?
Any suggestions?

Thanks in advance
James

eleonorang

James How do I begin?

Ahh, THE question ? Hi James, I'm glad you shared your thoughts with us.
I think one major advantage that you have is that accounting experience you've got, and it could help you define from the very beginning the kind of professional you're going to be. It's important to have a clear idea of who you're going to be so that you can offer your clients a consistent image. Market trends today teach us that specializing in a niche is often a source of rewards.
The basics you need to start (aside from a clear mind ? ) are a good CV and business cards, both on paper and digital such as a nice and straight website, and in time you can develop an online presence on social media.
You can use those tools to approach prospective clients and/or agencies, based on how you want to work, both by contacting them by e-mail/on social media or by meeting them at specialized conferences and events.
I recommend you also create a profile on Proz.com because that is a good place to start.

There's a lot to be said and done... but little by little you'll get there ?

Dmitry

eleonorang There's a lot to be said and done... but little by little you'll get there ?

Slow and steady wins the race ? Alas, there's no universal recipe that would fit into every particular situation. But one thing I can tell for sure: freelancing is all about being persistent and willing to learn every single day. And, of course, failing and learning from your failures. Best of luck @James! Be sure to share your adventures with us! ?

eleonorang

Hi @James, how's it going ? ?
Today I came across this article and I thought you could find it useful:
https://blog.freelancersunion.org/2017/07/14/12-quick-tips-for-aspiring-freelancers-2/

I also wanted to share this The Open Mic article from a while back which other people just starting out as freelancers will find interesting too:
https://theopenmic.co/starting-out-as-a-freelance-translator/

James

Thanks a lot Elena, I found the links very useful.

March_ts

Hi @James! I've been a freelance for several months now and I still have loads to learn. I think it's a great way to go, as long as you are patient. For me, a good way to promote my services was through direct emails to clients and agencies, and LinkedIn.
One of my biggest doubts was how much to charge, but Proz.com helps quite a lot. I also found this article quite useful: https://www.translatemedia.com/careers/how-to-become-a-translator/your-first-gig/

Also, @eleonorang's answers are reeeeally useful! Thank you for the articles! ?