This article is written for all who seek employment whether full-time, part-time, in-house, or as a freelance contractor in the Translation and Interpretation industries. As an employer in the industry, I feel compelled to share this information to the benefit of all who wonder “why” they were not offered the last job they applied for. This information is not necessarily unique to our industry, but I hope you will take the suggestions into account for your next interview interprete. Like any industry Translation and Interpretation is a competitive market for business owners as well as individuals seeking employment. If you want the job then you must standout. So, here are five areas to consider:
- Due diligence-Do your homework and research the company as thoroughly as possible. Today, it is possible to Google information not only about the company but also the individuals who operate it. The more you know the more you can position yourself to offer unique services by understanding “their needs”. Hence, it behooves you to read the website, review clients base, services offered, methods of interpretation, and of course the posted career opportunities. Do not just say “I am inquiring about your job openings blah, blah”. Tell them what you have to offer that can help meet their specific company objectives. Be energetic, with a can do attitude and remember to share your travel experiences as this is a plus in this industry.
- References-Have professional references available and notified them that you are in search of a position. Give your references as much information regarding the position, company and the name of the hiring manager who will contact them to inquiry about your credentials and work experience. Nothing is more awkward than calling a reference contact and the person seems to hesitate in recognizing the candidates’ name or what position they held or perhaps when they worked for the company. If it has been awhile since you left the company, make sure to reconnect prior to a check of your credentials by a hiring manager with the new company. Your reference or recommendation information should include company name, HR manager, and supervisor, company website, supervisor email and phone & address. By all means, please list the correct work dates and job titles because overlooking these simple details can make you look careless.
- Portfolio-Present your body of work via a portfolio of translated documents or voice recordings to demonstrate language fluency and expertise. Moreover, be prepared to demonstrate your abilities in-person with a test; sometimes you may be asked to test on the spot by the interviewer. You would be surprised at the look on countless of faces I have seen when I have asked candidates to take a written test by translating a few paragraphs. Believe me when I say, as an employer it made me immediately question the candidates’ statements on their resumes or CV. Employers like to hire workers who can handle pressure with grace and confidence.
- Professional Association-Join the professional associations this affords you the opportunity to network and continue your training with colleagues in your field. If you are a translator I highly recommend joining the American Translators Association (ATA)or one of its’ state chapters. The ATA continually hosts seminars, and conferences on industry trends. For interpreters depending on your area of expertise there are various associations to join. Some are specific to certain industries such a medical or legal interpreting.
- Insurance-Have your own Omissions & Error insurance. Due to the requirements to obtain the insurance, this little detail demonstrates that you are established in your profession or area of expertise. As a freelance agent it is important to be covered because of possible litigation against you. Some agency may also require it. Now that you know how to effectively interview and make yourself standout above the rest of the candidates, note that there is high job growth as announced by the U.S. Department of Labor Statistics well into the 2016 (24% estimated growth). So, join the Fast Track to building your Translation and Interpretation Career.