Translator (Vertaler)
Information on this skill...
A translator is someone who translates written texts into another language. Most translators use one or a few languages that they translate. If a translator only translates into his or her own language, one often speaks of the mother tongue. A translation is the conversion of words and texts into another language. In order to be able to perform translation services in a good way, it is important that a translator has a good command of both languages. For example, a written text cannot simply be translated word for word, because in many cases the meaning of a sentence will no longer be correct. The translation of texts cannot be seen as the word for word translation of texts, because then the grammar of texts will no longer be correct. The profession of translator can be regarded as an important profession, because many translations are carried out at all levels within society. Especially companies that work a lot internationally and governments have a great need for good translators. In the Netherlands we also know the sworn translator. To be eligible for this, it is necessary that the sworn translator is registered in the register for sworn interpreters and translators. This swearing-in is taken by the court. After the swearing-in, a person is entitled to translate official documents, such as those with legal status. Documents with a legal status can include supporting documents, diplomas, deeds, wills, articles of association, bank guarantees and patents. Translation services are very important for many large companies and governments. These types of companies and governments can also have their own department with translators.
Almost all large companies and governments have to deal with texts that need to be translated, because there are many companies and governments that work internationally or sell goods abroad. To prevent problems, it may be necessary that translated texts must also be checked by a company lawyer or lawyer. If there are possible comments regarding translated text, the text must be adapted by a translator. Legal texts generally need to be checked very carefully to avoid problems. Even a translator himself generally does not have all the knowledge in-house, and sometimes has to first delve into certain texts himself and thus gain his knowledge in order to be able to translate texts. What makes translation extra difficult is that texts can often not be translated one-on-one, because incorrect sentences or expressions can arise. The sentences must be translated in such a way that the interpretation of the text is not lost.
WORKING AS A TRANSLATOR
There are many independent entrepreneurs among the translators, who often work from home for different clients. If a translator wants to work for the government, he or she must be certified. In the past, it often happened that court cases had to be carried out again, because the translator in question did not appear to have the right papers. To prevent these kinds of problems, it is important that a translator is certified. Being able to translate in a good way is not easy, and it also regularly goes wrong. Especially in short texts, such as in manuals, there are often some mistakes. Translating entire documents or books is a lot of work and takes a lot of time. Sentences that are very easy to read in English, for example, become illogical in Dutch.
BECOME A SWORN TRANSLATOR
The profession of translator has no further professional protection, which means that everyone can work as a translator. It is true that governments and possible other organizations only use certified translators. Certified translators are translators who have been sworn in by a court to be allowed to translate for the government. In order to be eligible for the title of sworn translator, a translator must have experience and services rendered. Sworn translators must be registered in the Register of Sworn Interpreters and Translators (Rbtv). The profession of sworn translator and interpreter do have professional protection. In most cases, a translator can also work as an interpreter. Interpreting work is oral translation services.
WHAT DOES A TRANSLATOR DO:
TRANSLATOR TRAINING
There are some possibilities in the Netherlands to follow a full-time training to become a translator, such as at the translation academy in Maastricht or the university of applied sciences for interpreters and translation in Utrecht. In addition, shortened part-time courses are offered in many ways. During most programmes, at least two foreign languages are taught in addition to Dutch. Because as a translator you will often be deployed on specific tasks, education will also focus on these tasks, such as law, economics and technology. During the training there is also a lot of attention for working with computers and specific translation programs. In order to be recognized as a translator, it is important that you are registered with the sworn interpreters and translators office (bureau btv), so that you can be widely deployed as a translator. In addition, there are also plenty of external training institutes where you can follow a course. Accounting is also important as an independent translator. For more information, see also the profession of interpreter.
COMPANIES WHERE A TRANSLATOR CAN WORK
As a graduate translator, you can work at various companies, institutions or governments, such as translation agencies, banks, insurance companies or large companies that work internationally. But there is also sufficient demand for translators and interpreters from the government. Think of embassies and other government institutions. As a translator, it is also perfectly possible to work as an independent entrepreneur. Among the translators and interpreters, there are relatively many independent entrepreneurs.
TRANSLATOR'S COMPETENCES
The most important competence of a translator is to translate texts in a correct way. Being able to work accurately is important for a translator, because no errors should occur in translated texts. In addition, as a translator you must have a strong communication skills, because in many cases you have to deal with customers. If you work as an entrepreneur, networking can also be regarded as an important competence. Generally important words are ability to concentrate, precisely, planning, organizing, collaborating, consulting, stress resistance, insight and flexibility.
LABOUR MARKET PERSPECTIVE AND CAREER OPPORTUNITIES AS A TRANSLATOR
As a well-trained translator, it is usually not very easy to find work. The market for translators is not very large and fairly difficult in terms of throughput. But obtaining work as a translator is certainly not impossible, despite the fact that sometimes it will not go very quickly. The career opportunities as a translator must be seen in obtaining a managerial position within the organization or starting your own translation agency, which can of course also be seen as growing.
TERMS OF EMPLOYMENT AND SALARY TRANSLATOR
There are no specific employment conditions for this profession, because you can usually work at different types of companies or institutions. As an independent entrepreneur, you naturally determine your own terms of employment. An employed translator will usually earn a salary between 2200 and 3000 euros gross per month, depending on age, education and responsibilities. A translator working as an independent entrepreneur can usually earn more, but will then have to get enough assignments, which can be difficult due to the competition.
The content on this page has been automatically translated from the Dutch language. For this reason, texts and videos on this page may contain small errors.
Lesen Sie diese Informationen auf Ubersetzer auf Deutsch.
Lea esta información sobre Traductor en español.
Lees deze informatie over Vertaler in het Nederlands.
Mijnzzp.nl