29/03/2024

RRS

Explore Beyond Limits

Top Skills That Translators Need

Translators are professionals who translate words and content from one language to the next. Though you might think that these men and women only work for major organizations and corporations, even smaller companies need help, including doctors’ offices and retail chains. They may need help writing official documents that they send to clients, creating emails that go out around the world and crafting other types of content. Looking at the top skills that translators need can help you decide what you need to work on before searching for a job in the field.

 

Software Knowledge and Experience

All translators must have some knowledge and experience working with the top software and programs in this field. You can gain some experience and become more familiar with those programs through the college program that you study, but you may want to purchase that software and try using it at home until you feel comfortable with it. Many employers also want to know that workers have experience with tools like Dictaphone c-phones. These tools make it easier for you to copy what you hear into a document or file and allow you to listen to phrases and words multiple times.

Language Fluency

Other countries start teaching kids a second language at a young age because research shows that kids have a better ear for languages than adults do. Those who do best in the translation field generally have more experience speaking a second language. This includes those who studied another language at a young age and those who come from bilingual families. You must be completely comfortable with that second language and have the ability to instantly translate content across languages. The faster that you are, the better the chances are of you finding a job.

Time Management Skills

You also need to have good time management skills. While some people think that translators work for companies and in offices, many of those working in this field actually work from home. You’ll log into a system to start your day and then log out when you finish your assignments for the day or shift. Not only must you know how to manage your time effectively, but you’ll also need to work independently and with little to no supervision or contact with your employer. Having these three key skills can make the process of finding a translation job a little easier.