How I work
Translation
When translating, I place a lot of value on content collaboration between the client and translator. Source texts almost invariably present such problems that are best discussed together. Usually this need not go beyond limited e-mail correspondence taking a reasonably short amount of time and a rather modest effort.
I would venture to say that if you as client expect the translator just to submit to you a completed translation and an invoice without discussing the text with you at all, it may be best you turn to another provider. However, if you do appreciate the translator’s effort to get to the bottom of any complex expressions that may allow different interpretations so as to successfully convey the original intention, you’ll have a solid translation provider in me, as long as you answer my questions relating to the assignment within your capacity.
When it comes to pricing and scheduling, my policy is to prepare an advance offer on all translation and editing assignments whereby I commit to delivery at the stated price by the agreed deadline. The sums I invoice never catch anyone by surprise.
Translation memory software
In translating business texts such as web site content, marketing materials, technical instructions or news releases for a given client, I use translation memory software to incorporate everything translated for that client into a client-specific file called translation memory. This benefits the client, as all content previously translated by me can be efficiently reutilised when such content appears again in subsequent assignments in completely or predominantly identical form. Translation memory hits not only promote the consistency of translation output but also spare the translator’s effort to varying degrees, and I ensure that this advantage carries over to the client by presenting in my offers a translation memory based analysis of the assignment.
Proofreading and editing
I perform proofreading and editing of texts that may be substantial in length or are co-authored. In the course of translating dozens of books, I’ve noticed how hard it is for writers – including translators – to coherently stay on top of every aspect of the writing process, while an external pair of eyes can easily detect points of improvement in the text, be they unclear or equivocal expressions, unwanted redundancy, undeveloped connections within the text, typing errors or punctuation deficiencies.
English instruction
I provide English instruction in competitive terms. The training is tailored around client needs. As a starting point, I measure the competence levels of the students and group them accordingly as appropriate. The skill level measurements and the training itself guide me in preparation of training content relevant for the field in question, so that all students can build up their skills in ways that are optimal just for them. As language instructor, my bottom line is that all training I provide needs to be effective as well as fun and personal! While language learning does involve pure memorisation, it should also aim at enabling the eureka effect and building upon existing knowledge.
Journalism
Journalism is something I’ve also done ever since starting my business. I’ve written dozens of interview-based and other articles in English for three different print and online publications. I record all my interviews to meticulously go over them later and handpick the most pertinent information for the story. As it is essential to get the facts right, the interviewees are always provided an opportunity to review the article draft prior to publishing.