Isn’t it easy to fall into the trap of thinking that jobs for translators and interpreters are not in demand, can be done by anyone, and will disappear in the nearest future as long as machines replace them? You bet it is. Experienced translators, however, can dispute these statements.
Let’s dispel other myths about paid translation jobs online.
1. A skillful translator has to be equally good at any topic
Even though it sounds unrealistic, such a statement remains relevant among people who are not connected with linguistic vacancies. Well, if so, then why not to assume that a teacher knows any subject well or a sportsmen can be good at doing any sport? At home translation jobs are not the exception, but the rule.
2. Hiring a Professional Translator Is a Waste of Time, Since Online Free Translation Tools are Equally Good
This is a very frivolous assumption! Whereas specifically-developed complex algorithms in machine translation tools are more or less suitable for usage (and still should be enhanced by translators according to the context), online free translators are what force you to walk on eggshells around the text you translate. Most likely, such a fallacy exists owing to the fact that many people have no idea about inner nuances, collocations, and cultural differences an online english translation job involves.
3. Translators and Interpreters Are the Same Thing
Before figuring out where to find translation jobs, we need to know how to ask the right questions. Many people think that home office translator jobs and home office interpreter jobs are interchangeable words. Both interpreter and translator bring the point across the audience, but the form of expression is different. The main distinction is in their area of competence—the written word belongs to translators, while the oral word for interpreters.
4. Anyone Who Knows Languages Can Be a Translator
If you happen to have bilingual friends and they are ready to help you, such a translation is likely to be far inferior to what a professional can produce. The reason is because translation requires formal training and time to attain the full-fledged competence. An unqualified person is prone to omit cultural specificities, subject-specific terminology, and make nonsensical mistakes while transposing to another language.
5. The Translation Industry Is Going to Fade Away
According to current news (a quick Google search will prove it), it sounds like a futuristic myth made up by filmmakers, since the truth is opposite. The existence of online translators, a multilingual society, and an all-encompassing internet power cannot undermine translators’ positions. Being succinct: quality will be in demand both tomorrow and the next day.
While rumors and assumptions disseminate around the populace, experts in translating carry out their work. In fact, translators’ eternal shine is not at risk. Finesse, competence, intelligence, and superb knowledge always deserve a high rank and prosperity. As long as there is no slowdown in sight, translators not only deserve, but also gain an advantage.