Freelance translation is a great career objective, in-as-much-as it’s an industry that’s very much in demand and for qualified and highly experienced translators there’s almost no financial limit to what you can earn. With today’s global economy, many businesses (both large and small) are extending their market reach, which means entering new countries. Translators are required for translating various types of marketing materials, which sometimes includes whole websites.

Similar to many other industries, the most important aspect of running a successful business is adequate and effective marketing. Without this, you won’t be able to grow your business. The translation industry is no different to any other business when it comes to marketing: there are no secrets! You need to put yourself and your skills out into the marketplace where people who might be able to utilize your services can see what you have to offer.

Below we’ve listed some effective ways of increasing the visibility of your freelance translation business –

That old phrase: ‘Closed mouths don’t get fed’ certainly rings true here. You need to share your business knowledge and skills with every person you come into contact with. This is not a time to be shy: be proud and confident of yourself and your translation skills.

You need to develop an online presence by creating a website for your freelance translation business; where potential clients can clearly see the types of services on offer; plus you should have a translation blog which is updated on a daily (or regular) basis. In addition, your website should proudly display any testimonials you have received from past translation clients. Promote your website at every opportunity.

Ask for referrals from previous translation clients, and from family and friends, because referrals will be the lifeblood of your business. Previous clients who were satisfied with your services will be only too happy to promote you and your business. Remember, though, that you should not wait for clients to offer referrals – you must ask for them.

Marketing is not a one-off event: you must continuously market your translation services. It’s something you should have at the forefront of your mind and it’s something you should be thinking about and doing each and every day. It’s the only way your clients can find you and hire you for your translation knowledge and skills.

Have some business cards professionally made and distribute them to everyone who may be able to use your services. They’re no good to your business if they’re sitting in a box in your home office – you need to get them out there. Your aim should be to distribute a minimum of ten business cards each and every day.

It takes time and effort on your part to build solid business relationships, and the goal of marketing your translation business should be to reach as many potential clients as you possibly can. By using the above strategies we trust that you’ll be able to attract new, good quality and loyal translation clients to your business.